Liquid Dispensing System

Abstract

To notice that a head which is not a genuine product for the body of a printer is going to be used, in a stage before the printer is used.SOLUTION: A liquid discharge system includes: a first processor connected to a liquid discharge device to which a liquid head for discharging liquid is equipped, the first processor generating recording data used to cause the liquid discharge head to perform a discharge operation in the liquid discharge device; a server; a first acquisition unit for acquiring first information unique to the liquid discharge head and second information on the liquid discharge device; a determination unit for determining whether the server stores the correspondence relation between the first information and the second information in advance; a second sending unit for sending third information on the result of determination by the determination unit; a second reception unit for receiving third information; and a first notification unit for issuing a first notification to the outside on the basis of the third information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid ejection system. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art In a liquid ejection device such as an inkjet printer, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, for example, a drive pulse is applied to a drive element such as a piezoelectric element, causing a liquid such as ink to be ejected from a head. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-30689 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In recent business models, the manufacturer of the head may be different from the manufacturer of the printer itself, which is the remaining components of a printer. Head manufacturers vary parameters such as piezoelectric characteristics, liquid flow paths, and nozzles for each printer's intended use. However, printer manufacturers may manufacture printers using a head different from the one originally intended for use due to cost or inventory constraints. This can lead to problems, such as insufficient liquid ejection characteristics. Previously, it was difficult to detect the use of non-genuine heads in a printer until the problem became apparent when the end user actually used the printer. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In order to solve the above problems, one aspect of the liquid ejection system of the present invention is a liquid ejection system comprising: a liquid ejection head that ejects liquid; a liquid ejection device to which the liquid ejection head is attached; a first processing device connected to the liquid ejection device and generating recording data used to cause the liquid ejection device to perform an ejection operation of the liquid ejection head; and a server that can be connected to a network, and the liquid ejection system further comprises: a first acquisition unit that acquires first information specific to the liquid ejection head and second information related to the liquid ejection device; a first transmission unit that transmits the first information and the second information acquired by the first acquisition unit to the server via a network connection; a first receiving unit in the server that receives the first information and the second information via the network connection; a determination unit in the server that determines whether a correspondence between the first information and the second information is pre-stored in the server; a second transmission unit that transmits third information related to the determination result of the determination unit from the server via the network connection; a second receiving unit that receives the third information via the network connection; and a first notification unit that issues a first notification to an external party based on the third information received by the second receiving unit. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a liquid ejection system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a liquid ejection device used in a liquid ejection system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a first processing device used in the liquid ejection system according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a server used in the liquid ejection system according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 5] 10 is a lookup table showing an example of a set of first information and second information, corresponding information, and third information. [Figure 6] 5 is a flowchart showing the processing of the liquid ejection system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7]FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a liquid ejection system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a first processing device used in a liquid ejection system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a server used in a liquid ejection system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a second processing device used in a liquid ejection system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a third processing device used in the liquid ejection system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12A] 10 is a flowchart showing the processing of a liquid ejection system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 12B] 10 is a flowchart showing the processing of a liquid ejection system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a liquid ejection system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a liquid ejection device used in a liquid ejection system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a first processing device used in a liquid ejection system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 16] 11 is a flowchart showing the processing of a liquid ejection system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a liquid ejection system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a first processing device used in a liquid ejection system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an external device used in a liquid ejection system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 20A] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of an external device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 20B] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of an external device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 20C]FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of an external device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 21] 10 is a flowchart showing the processing of a liquid ejection system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a liquid ejection system according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a liquid ejection device used in a liquid ejection system according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an external device used in a liquid ejection system according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 25] 13 is a flowchart showing the processing of a liquid ejection system according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a second processing device used in a liquid ejection system according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the dimensions and scale of each part in the drawings may differ from the actual dimensions and are shown schematically to facilitate understanding. Furthermore, the scope of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments unless otherwise specified in the following description to the effect that the present invention is limited thereto.

[0008] 1. First embodiment 1-1. Overview of the liquid ejection system FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a liquid ejection system 10 according to a first embodiment. The liquid ejection system 10 is a system that detects the use of a non-genuine head in a printer main body. Here, the "printer main body" refers to the configuration of the printer excluding the head. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the liquid ejection system 10 has liquid ejection devices 100_1 to 100_3, first processing devices 200_1 to 200_3, and a server 300. Note that hereinafter, the liquid ejection devices 100_1 to 100_3 will be collectively referred to as "liquid ejection device 100." Similarly, the first processing devices 200_1 to 200_3 will be collectively referred to as "first processing device 200."

[0009] Here, the liquid ejection devices 100_1 to 100_3 are provided by the manufacturer of the printer main body (described later). The liquid ejection devices 100_1 to 100_3 may be provided by the same manufacturer or by different manufacturers. The first processing devices 200_1 to 200_3 may be owned by the user or may be provided by the manufacturer of the printer main body. On the other hand, the head unit 110 incorporated into the liquid ejection devices 100_1 to 100_3 is provided by the manufacturer of the head (described later). The server 300 is owned by the head manufacturer itself. The server 300 is maintained and managed by the head manufacturer.

[0010] When a user uses the printer main body, the user owns the liquid ejection device 100_1, the first processing device 200_1, and the head unit 110. On the other hand, the user does not own the server 300, but can communicate with (connect to) the server 300 via a communication network (described later) NW.

[0011] Note that a user refers to a person who uses the liquid ejection device 100_1. For example, if a manufacturer purchases a head from a head manufacturer and manufactures a printer body, the manufacturer of the printer body itself uses the printer body, then the manufacturer of the printer body is the user. Also, for example, if a manufacturer of a printer body purchases a head from a head manufacturer and manufactures the printer body, and a third party purchases and uses the printer body from the manufacturer of the printer body, then the third party is the user.

[0012] The liquid ejection devices 100_1 to 100_3 and the first processing devices 200_1 to 200_3 correspond to each other one-to-one. Although three liquid ejection devices 100_1 to 100_3 and three first processing devices 200_1 to 200_3 are shown in Fig. 1, this is just an example, and the liquid ejection system 10 has any number of pairs of liquid ejection devices 100 and first processing devices 200.

[0013] In the liquid ejection system 10, the first processing device 200 is connected to the liquid ejection device 100 and the server 300 wirelessly or via a wired connection so that they can communicate with each other. The first processing device 200 is connected to the server 300 via a communication network NW including the Internet. Note that the connection between the first processing device 200 and the liquid ejection device 100 may be via a communication network including the Internet.

[0014] 1, the liquid ejection device 100 transmits first information D1 and second information D2 to the first processing device 200. The first information D1 and second information D2 are also transmitted from the first processing device 200 to the server 300. Meanwhile, the server 300 transmits third information D3 to the first processing device 200. Details of the first information D1, second information D2, and third information D3 will be described later with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0015] 1-2. Configuration of the liquid ejection device FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a liquid ejection device 100 used in the liquid ejection system 10 according to the first embodiment. The liquid ejection device 100 is a printer that prints on a print medium using an inkjet method. The print medium is not particularly limited as long as it is a medium on which the liquid ejection device 100 can print, and examples of the print medium include various types of paper, various types of cloth, and various types of film. The liquid ejection device 100 may be a serial printer or a line printer.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 2, the liquid ejection device 100 includes a head unit 110, a moving mechanism 120, a communication device 130, a memory circuit 140, and a processing circuit 150.

[0017] The head unit 110 is an assembly having a head chip 111 , a drive circuit 112 , a memory circuit 113 , a power supply circuit 114 , and a drive signal generation circuit 115 .

[0018] 2, the head unit 110 is divided into a liquid ejection head 110a including a head chip 111, a drive circuit 112, and a memory circuit 113, and a control module 110b including a power supply circuit 114 and a drive signal generation circuit 115. Note that the head unit 110 is not limited to being divided into the liquid ejection head 110a and the control module 110b, and for example, part or all of the control module 110b may be incorporated into the liquid ejection head 110a.

[0019] Head chip 111 ejects ink toward a print medium. Of the components of head chip 111, a plurality of drive elements 111f are representatively shown in FIG.

[0020] 2, the head unit 110 has one head chip 111, but the number may be two or more. When the liquid ejection device 100 is a serial type, one or more head chips 111 are arranged so that a plurality of nozzles are distributed across a portion of the width of the printing medium. When the liquid ejection device 100 is a line type, two or more head chips 111 are arranged so that a plurality of nozzles are distributed across the entire width of the printing medium.

[0021] Under the control of the processing circuit 150, the driving circuit 112 switches whether or not to supply the driving signal Com output from the driving signal generating circuit 115 as a driving pulse PD to each of the multiple driving elements 111f of the head chip 111. The driving circuit 112 includes, for example, a group of switches such as transmission gates for this switching.

[0022] The memory circuit 113 stores the first information D1. The memory circuit 113 includes one or more semiconductor memories, such as one or more volatile memories, such as RAM (Random Access Memory), and one or more nonvolatile memories, such as ROM (Read Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), or PROM (Programmable ROM). The memory circuit 113 is an example of a first memory unit.

[0023] The first information D1 is information unique to the liquid ejection head 110a, for example, the serial number of the liquid ejection head 110a.

[0024] The power supply circuit 114 receives power from a commercial power supply (not shown) and generates various predetermined potentials. The generated potentials are supplied to each section of the liquid ejection device 100 as appropriate. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the power supply circuit 114 generates a power supply potential VHV and an offset potential VBS. The offset potential VBS is supplied to the head chip 111 and the like. The power supply potential VHV is supplied to the drive signal generation circuit 115 and the like.

[0025] The drive signal generation circuit 115 is a circuit that generates a drive signal Com for driving each drive element 111f of the head chip 111. Specifically, the drive signal generation circuit 115 has, for example, a DA conversion circuit and an amplifier circuit. In the drive signal generation circuit 115, the DA conversion circuit converts a waveform designation signal dCom (described later) from the processing circuit 150 from a digital signal to an analog signal, and the amplifier circuit amplifies the analog signal using a power supply potential VHV from the power supply circuit 114 to generate the drive signal Com. Here, of the waveforms included in the drive signal Com, the signal with the waveform that is actually supplied to the drive element 111f is the drive pulse PD.

[0026] The movement mechanism 120 changes the relative position of the liquid ejection head 110a and the print medium. More specifically, if the liquid ejection device 100 is a serial type, the movement mechanism 120 has a transport mechanism that transports the print medium in a predetermined direction, and a transport mechanism that repeatedly moves the liquid ejection head 110a along an axis perpendicular to the transport direction of the print medium. Furthermore, if the liquid ejection device 100 is a line type, the movement mechanism 120 has a transport mechanism that transports the print medium in a direction that intersects with the longitudinal direction of the elongated liquid ejection head 110a.

[0027] The communication device 130 is a circuit communicatively connected to the first processing device 200. For example, the communication device 130 is an interface such as a wireless or wired LAN (Local Area Network) or USB (Universal Serial Bus). USB is a registered trademark. The communication device 130 may be connected to another first processing device 200 via another network such as the Internet. The communication device 130 may also be integrated with the processing circuit 150.

[0028] The memory circuitry 140 stores various programs executed by the processing circuitry 150, various data such as print data processed by the processing circuitry 150, and second information D2. The memory circuitry 140 includes, for example, one or more semiconductor memories, such as RAM, and one or more non-volatile memories such as ROM, EEPROM, or PROM. The print data is supplied from, for example, the first processing device 200. The memory circuitry 140 may be configured as a part of the processing circuitry 150. The memory circuitry 140 is also an example of a second memory unit.

[0029] The second information D2 is information relating to the liquid ejection device 100. For example, the second information D2 is one or both of the manufacturer name and product number of the part of the liquid ejection device 100 excluding the liquid ejection head 110a. Hereinafter, in this embodiment, the second information D2 will be described as an example in which it is the manufacturer name.

[0030] The processing circuit 150 has a function of controlling the operation of each part of the liquid ejection device 100 and a function of processing various data. The processing circuit 150 includes, for example, one or more processors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Note that the processing circuit 150 may include a programmable logic device such as an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) instead of or in addition to a CPU.

[0031] The processing circuit 150 executes the programs stored in the memory circuit 140 to control the operation of each part of the liquid ejection device 100. Here, the processing circuit 150 generates signals such as a control signal Sk, a print data signal SI, and a waveform designation signal dCom as signals for controlling the operation of each part of the liquid ejection device 100.

[0032] The control signal Sk is a signal for controlling the driving of the movement mechanism 120. The print data signal SI is a signal for controlling the driving of the drive circuit 112. Specifically, the print data signal SI specifies for each predetermined unit period whether the drive circuit 112 supplies the drive signal Com from the drive signal generation circuit 115 to the liquid ejection head 110a as a drive pulse PD. This specification specifies the amount of ink ejected from the liquid ejection head 110a, etc. The waveform specification signal dCom is a digital signal for defining the waveform of the drive signal Com generated by the drive signal generation circuit 115.

[0033] The processing circuit 150 also reads out the first information D1 from the memory circuit 113. The processing circuit 150 also reads out the second information D2 from the memory circuit 140. Furthermore, the processing circuit 150 outputs the read out first information D1 and second information D2 to the outside of the liquid ejection device 100 by using the communication device 130.

[0034] 1-3. Configuration of the first processing device 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a first processing device 200 used in the liquid ejection system 10 according to the first embodiment. The first processing device 200 is a computer, such as a desktop or notebook computer, and controls printing by the liquid ejection device 100.

[0035] 3, the first processing device 200 has a display device 210, an input device 220, a communication device 230, a memory circuit 240, and a processing circuit 250. These are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0036] The display device 210 displays various images under the control of the processing circuit 250. Here, the display device 210 has various display panels, such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL (electro-luminescence) display panel. The display device 210 may be provided outside the first processing device 200. The display device 210 may also be a component of the liquid ejection device 100.

[0037] The input device 220 is a device that accepts operations from a user. For example, the input device 220 has a pointing device such as a touchpad, a touch panel, or a mouse. Here, if the input device 220 has a touch panel, it may also serve as the display device 210. The input device 220 may be provided outside the first processing device 200. Furthermore, the input device 220 may be a component of the liquid ejection device 100.

[0038] The communication device 230 is a circuit communicatively connected to the liquid ejection device 100 and the server 300. For example, the communication device 230 is an interface such as a wireless or wired LAN or USB. The communication device 230 communicates with the liquid ejection device 100 to transmit print data to the liquid ejection device 100 and receive first information D1 and second information D2 from the liquid ejection device 100. The communication device 230 also communicates with the server 300 to transmit first information D1 and second information D2 and receive third information D3. That is, the communication device 230 functions as a connection unit 231 communicatively connected to the liquid ejection device 100 and the server 300. The communication device 230 may be integrated with the processing circuit 250. The connection unit 231 is an example of a first connection unit. The print data is an example of recording data.

[0039] As will be described later, the third information D3 is the result of comparing the set of the first information D1 and the second information D2 with the correspondence information CD1, which will be described later, in the server 300. Here, the correspondence information CD1 indicates a set of the serial number of the liquid ejection head 110a and at least one of the manufacturer name and product number of the liquid ejection device 100.

[0040] The memory circuitry 240 is a device that stores various programs executed by the processing circuitry 250 and various data processed by the processing circuitry 250. The memory circuitry 240 includes, for example, a hard disk drive or a semiconductor memory. Note that part or all of the memory circuitry 240 may be provided in an external storage device, server, or the like external to the first processing device 200.

[0041] In this embodiment, the memory circuitry 240 stores a program PG1, first information D1, second information D2, and third information D3. Note that some or all of the program PG1, first information D1, second information D2, and third information D3 may be stored in an external storage device or server of the first processing device 200. In this specification, the program PG1, first information D1, second information D2, and third information D3 are collectively referred to as a "dataset DG."

[0042] The processing circuit 250 is a device that has the function of controlling each part of the first processing device 200, the liquid ejection device 100, and the server 300, and the function of processing various types of data. The processing circuit 250 has a processor such as a CPU. The processing circuit 250 may be configured with a single processor or multiple processors. Furthermore, some or all of the functions of the processing circuit 250 may be realized by hardware such as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), PLD (Programmable Logic Device), or FPGA.

[0043] The processing circuitry 250 functions as an acquisition unit 251, a transmission unit 252, a reception unit 253, and a notification unit 254 by reading and executing the program PG1 from the storage circuitry 240.

[0044] The acquisition unit 251 acquires the first information D1 and the second information D2 by communicating with the liquid ejection device 100 using the connection unit 231. The acquisition unit 251 stores the acquired first information D1 and second information D2 in the memory circuitry 240. The acquisition unit 251 is an example of a first acquisition unit.

[0045] The transmitting unit 252 causes the connecting unit 231 to transmit the acquired first information D1 and second information D2 to the server 300. The transmitting unit 252 is an example of a first transmitting unit.

[0046] More specifically, when a transmission instruction is input by the user of the liquid ejection device 100 from the input device 220, the transmission unit 252 immediately causes the server 300 to transmit the first information D1 and the second information D2 to the connection unit 231.

[0047] The receiving unit 253 causes the connection unit 231 to receive the third information D3 from the server 300. The receiving unit 253 also stores the received third information D3 in the memory circuit 240. The receiving unit 253 is an example of a second receiving unit.

[0048] The notification unit 254 outputs a notification regarding the liquid ejection device 100 to the outside of the first processing device 200 based on the third information D3. For example, the notification unit 254 uses a display control unit (not shown) to display the notification on the display device 210. The notification includes a notification regarding the compatibility of the liquid ejection device 100. For example, the notification may be a notification encouraging the user of the liquid ejection device 100 to use a genuine liquid ejection head 110a. Alternatively, the notification may be a notification encouraging the user of the liquid ejection device 100 to contact the manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100. The term "user" here refers not only to the end user of the liquid ejection device 100 but also to the operator who installs the liquid ejection device 100. In particular, if the "user" is an end user, even if an unauthorized liquid ejection head 110a is being used, the "user" may not have installed the unauthorized liquid ejection head 110a in the liquid ejection device 100. For this reason, the first processing device 200 only notifies the "user" to use a genuine liquid ejection head 110a or to inquire with the manufacturer. The notification unit 254 is an example of a first notification unit. The above notification is also an example of a first notification. Here, "genuine" means that the liquid ejection head 110a is compatible with the liquid ejection device 100.

[0049] In this specification, the acquisition unit 251, the transmission unit 252, the reception unit 253, and the notification unit 254 are collectively referred to as a "functional unit FG."

[0050] 1-3. Server configuration 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the server 300 used in the liquid ejection system 10 according to the first embodiment. The server 300 is a cloud server, and is a computer that generates third information D3 based on the first information D1 and the second information D2.

[0051] 4, the server 300 includes a display device 310, an input device 320, a communication device 330, a memory circuit 340, and a processing circuit 350. These are communicatively connected to each other.

[0052] The display device 310 is a device that displays various images under the control of the processing circuit 350, and is configured in the same manner as the display device 210 described above.

[0053] The input device 320 is a device that accepts operations from the user, and is configured in the same manner as the input device 220 described above.

[0054] The communication device 330 is a circuit communicatively connected to each first processing device 200, and is configured similarly to the communication device 230 described above. That is, the communication device 330 functions as a connection unit 331 communicatively connected to each first processing device 200. The connection unit 331 is an example of a first connection unit. The communication device 330 may be integrated with the processing circuit 350.

[0055] The memory circuitry 340 is a device that stores various programs executed by the processing circuitry 350 and various data processed by the processing circuitry 350, and is configured similarly to the above-described memory circuitry 240. The memory circuitry 340 stores a program PG2, first information D1, second information D2, third information D3, and corresponding information CD1.

[0056] The processing circuitry 350 is a device having the function of controlling each unit of the server 300 and the function of processing various types of data, and is configured in the same manner as the above-described processing circuitry 250. The processing circuitry 350 functions as a receiving unit 351, a determining unit 352, and a transmitting unit 353 by reading and executing the program PG2 from the storage circuitry 340.

[0057] The receiving unit 351 causes the connection unit 331 to receive the first information D1 and the second information D2 from the first processing device 200. The receiving unit 351 also stores the received first information D1 and the second information D2 in the memory circuit 340. When the first information D1 and the second information D2 are transmitted from the first processing device 200, the receiving unit 351 immediately receives the first information D1 and the second information D2. However, the method of receiving the first information D1 and the second information D2 is not limited to this. For example, when the first information D1 and the second information D2 are transmitted from the first processing device 200, the server 300 notifies the first processing device 200 that the first information D1 and the second information D2 have been transmitted. The first processing device 200 displays a message on the display device 210 requesting the user of the liquid ejection device 100 to allow the server 300 to receive the first information D1 and the second information D2. After checking the message, the user of the liquid ejection device 100 instructs the server 300 to allow reception of the first information D1 and the second information D2 from the input device 220. When the server 300 acquires a signal indicating this permission, the receiving unit 351 causes the connection unit 331 to receive the first information D1 and the second information D2. The first information D1 and the second information D2 may be received in this manner. The receiving unit 351 is an example of a first receiving unit.

[0058] The determination unit 352 determines whether or not a correspondence relationship between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is stored in advance in the server 300. More specifically, the determination unit 352 determines whether or not the correspondence relationship is stored in advance in the server 300 by comparing the received set of the first information D1 and the second information D2 with a lookup table in which correspondence information CD1 is written. The determination unit 352 also generates third information D3 indicating the result of the determination. The determination unit 352 then stores the generated third information D3 in the storage circuitry 340. The determination unit 352 may also determine whether or not the correspondence relationship is stored in advance in the server 300 by a method that does not use a lookup table.

[0059] Furthermore, if the receiving unit 351 receives the same set of first information D1 and second information D2 multiple times and the determining unit 352 determines multiple times that the same correspondence between the first information D1 and second information D2 is pre-stored in the memory circuit 340, the determining unit 352 generates third information D3 indicating that the result of the determination is true for the first determination, and generates third information D3 indicating that the result of the determination is false for the second or subsequent determinations. Basically, one liquid ejection head 110a is attached to only one liquid ejection device 100. Because the first information D1 is a serial number unique to the liquid ejection head 110a, it is unlikely that the same first information D1 will be obtained multiple times in normal usage. This is thought to occur because, despite using an unauthorized liquid ejection head 110a, the user or manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100 inputs the first information D1 associated with a separately obtained authorized liquid ejection head 110a and the corresponding second information D2, intentionally attempting to skip the determination process. Even in this case, the unauthorized liquid ejection head 110a is ultimately used in the liquid ejection device 100, which still leaves room for end users to encounter problems with the ejection characteristics and the like. Therefore, if there are multiple correspondences between the same first information D1 and second information D2, only the first one is determined to be true, and subsequent ones are determined to be false.

[0060] The transmitting unit 353 causes the first processing device 200 to transmit the third information D3 to the connecting unit 331. Immediately after the third information D3 is generated, the transmitting unit 353 causes the first processing device 200 to transmit the third information D3 to the connecting unit 331. However, the method of transmitting the third information D3 is not limited to this. For example, the transmitting unit 353 notifies the first processing device 200 that the third information D3 has been generated. Based on the notification, the first processing device 200 displays a message on the display device 210 asking whether or not to receive the third information D3. After checking the message, the user of the liquid ejection device 100 instructs the input device 220 to permit transmission of the third information D3. When the server 300 receives a signal indicating the permission, the transmitting unit 353 causes the first processing device 200 to transmit the third information D3 to the connecting unit 331. The method of transmitting the third information D3 may be as described above. The transmitting unit 353 is an example of a second transmitting unit.

[0061] 1-4. Processing in the judgment section FIG. 5 is a lookup table showing an example of a pair of first information D1 and second information D2, correspondence information CD1, and third information D3. For simplicity, the first information D1 is information indicating the serial number of the liquid ejection head 110a, and the second information D2 is information indicating the manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100. In the lookup table shown in FIG. 5, the first information D1 is stored in the first column. The second information D2 is stored in the second column. The serial number of the genuine liquid ejection head 110a, which is part of the correspondence information CD1, is stored in the third column. The code indicating the manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100, which is part of the correspondence information CD1, is stored in the fourth column. The third information D3 is stored in the fifth column. In the example of the third information D3 shown in FIG. 5, "OK" indicates that the determination result by the determination unit 352 is true. On the other hand, "NG" indicates that the determination result by the determination unit 352 is false.

[0062] In the first and second rows of the table shown in FIG. 5, the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 matches the correspondence between the serial number of the genuine liquid ejection head 110a and the code indicating the manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100, as indicated by the correspondence information CD1. Therefore, the third information D3 is "OK." On the other hand, in the third row, the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 does not match the correspondence between the serial number of the genuine liquid ejection head 110a and the code indicating the manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100, as indicated by the correspondence information CD1. Therefore, the third information D3 is "NG." Furthermore, in the fourth to eighth rows, the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 matches the correspondence between the serial number of the genuine liquid ejection head 110a and the code indicating the manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100, as indicated by the correspondence information CD1. Therefore, the third information D3 is "OK." On the other hand, in the ninth line, the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 does not match the correspondence between the serial number of the genuine liquid ejection head 110a and the code indicating the manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100, as indicated by the correspondence information CD1. Therefore, the third information D3 is determined to be "NG." Furthermore, in the tenth line, the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 matches the correspondence between the serial number of the genuine liquid ejection head 110a and the code indicating the manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100, as indicated by the correspondence information CD1. Therefore, the third information D3 is determined to be "OK." On the other hand, in the eleventh line, the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 matches the correspondence between the serial number of the genuine liquid ejection head 110a and the code indicating the manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100, as indicated by the correspondence information CD1. However, the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 in the eleventh line has already been determined in the first line. Therefore, the third information D3 is "NG".

[0063] 1-5. Liquid Discharge System Processing Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing the processing of the liquid ejection system 10 according to the first embodiment. The processing in Fig. 6 may be triggered by a user's input indicating that the processing should be started. The processing in Fig. 6 may also be triggered by the attachment of the liquid ejection head 110a to the liquid ejection device 100. In any case, the processing in Fig. 6 is completed in its entirety before the user uses the liquid ejection head 110a.

[0064] In step S101, the processing circuit 250 of the first processing device 200 functions as the acquisition unit 251 to acquire the first information D1.

[0065] In step S102, the processing circuit 250 of the first processing device 200 functions as the acquiring unit 251 to acquire the second information D2.

[0066] In step S103, the processing circuit 250 of the first processing device 200 functions as a transmitting unit 252 to transmit the first information D1 and the second information D2 to the server 300. In addition, the processing circuit 350 of the server 300 functions as a receiving unit 351 to receive the first information D1 and the second information D2.

[0067] In step S104, the processing circuit 350 of the server 300 functions as the determination unit 352 to determine whether the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is stored in the server 300 in advance.

[0068] In step S105, the processing circuit 350 of the server 300 functions as the determination unit 352 to generate third information D3 indicating the determination result.

[0069] In step S106, the processing circuit 350 of the server 300 functions as the transmitting unit 353 to transmit the third information D3 to the first processing device 200. Thereafter, the processing circuit 350 of the server 300 ends all processing. Also, the processing circuit 250 of the first processing device 200 functions as the receiving unit 253 to receive the third information D3.

[0070] If the third information D3 indicates true, i.e., if the answer is YES in step S107, the processing circuit 250 of the first processing device 200 ends all processing. If the third information D3 indicates false, i.e., if the answer is NO in step S107, the processing circuit 250 of the first processing device 200 executes the processing of step S108.

[0071] In step S108, the processing circuit 250 of the first processing device 200 functions as the notification unit 254, and outputs a first notification related to the liquid ejection device 100 to the outside of the first processing device 200 based on the third information D3. Thereafter, the processing circuit 250 of the first processing device 200 ends all processing.

[0072] 1-6. Effects of the liquid ejection system The liquid ejection system 10 according to this embodiment includes a liquid ejection head 110a that ejects liquid, a liquid ejection device 100 to which the liquid ejection head 110a is attached, a first processing device 200 that is connected to the liquid ejection device 100 and generates recording data used to cause the liquid ejection device 100 to perform an ejection operation of the liquid ejection head 110a, and a server 300 that can be connected to a network. The liquid ejection system 10 also includes an acquisition unit 251, a transmission unit 252, a reception unit 351, a determination unit 352, a transmission unit 353, a reception unit 253, and a notification unit 254. The acquisition unit 251 acquires first information D1 that is unique to the liquid ejection head 110a and second information D2 related to the liquid ejection device 100. The transmission unit 252 transmits the first information D1 and second information D2 acquired by the acquisition unit 251 to the server 300 via a network connection. The receiving unit 351 receives the first information D1 and the second information D2 from the server 300 via a network connection. The determining unit 352 determines whether a correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is stored in the server 300 in advance. The transmitting unit 353 transmits third information D3 related to the determination result of the determining unit 352 from the server 300 via a network connection. The receiving unit 253 receives the third information D3 via a network connection. The notifying unit 254 issues a first notification to the outside based on the third information D3 received by the receiving unit 253. Specifically, if the third information D3 indicates true, the first notification is not executed, and if the third information D3 indicates false, the first notification is executed. More specifically, in the operation shown in the flowchart of FIG. 6, the authenticity of the third information D3 is determined in step S107. If the third information D3 indicates true, the processing circuit 250 of the first processing device 200 terminates all processing. If the third information D3 indicates false, the processing circuit 250 of the first processing device 200 executes the process of step S108. In step S108, the notification unit 254 outputs a first notification related to the liquid ejection device 100 to the outside of the first processing device 200 based on the third information D3. Thereafter, the processing circuit 250 of the first processing device 200 ends all processes.

[0073] As described above, in recent business models, the head manufacturer may differ from the manufacturer of the printer itself, which comprises all the components of a printer other than the head. Head manufacturers vary parameters such as piezoelectric characteristics, liquid flow paths, and nozzles for each printer's intended use. However, printer manufacturers may manufacture printers using a different head than the one originally intended, due to malicious intent or negligence resulting from cost or inventory constraints. Therefore, the head manufacturer, rather than the printer manufacturer, incorporates an authentication system with the above configuration into the liquid ejection system 10. The liquid ejection system 10 includes this authentication system, allowing users of the printer (liquid ejection device 100) to detect the use of a non-genuine liquid ejection head 110a with the printer itself before actually using the printer. Furthermore, previously, identifying the type of head required the printer's firmware to have a detection algorithm. However, because firmware structures vary depending on the printer manufacturer, it was difficult to standardize firmware specifications. Furthermore, it was also difficult to constantly update firmware to the latest version. On the other hand, with the liquid ejection system 10 according to this embodiment, even if the printer manufacturers are different, it is possible to use a system with common specifications between manufacturers.

[0074] The first processing device 200 also has a connection unit 231 that can be connected to the server 300 via a network. The transmission unit 252 causes the connection unit 231 to transmit the first information D1 and the second information D2 to the server 300. The reception unit 253 causes the connection unit 231 to receive the third information D3 from the server 300.

[0075] By having this configuration, the liquid ejection system 10 can determine independently whether the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is stored in the server 300 in advance.

[0076] The first notification also includes a notification regarding the compatibility of the liquid ejection device 100.

[0077] By having this configuration, the liquid ejection system 10 can send notifications related to the liquid ejection device 100 to the outside of the liquid ejection system 10.

[0078] The first notification also includes a notification to the user of the liquid ejection device 100 to use the genuine liquid ejection head 110a.

[0079] By having this configuration, the liquid ejection system 10 can encourage users of the printer serving as the liquid ejection device 100 to use the head as a regular liquid ejection head 110a.

[0080] The first notification also includes a notification that prompts the user of the liquid ejection device 100 to make an inquiry to the manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100.

[0081] By having this configuration, the liquid ejection system 10 can encourage users of a printer serving as the liquid ejection device 100 to contact the manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100.

[0082] Furthermore, the server 300 is preferably a cloud server, but may also be an on-premise server.

[0083] Because the liquid ejection system 10 has this configuration, the server 300 can determine, remotely from the pair of the liquid ejection device 100 and the first processing device 200, whether the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 has been stored in advance in the server 300.

[0084] Furthermore, if the judgment unit 352 judges that the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is stored in advance in the server 300, and if it is judged multiple times that the same correspondence is stored in advance in the server 300, the notification unit 254 issues a first notification.

[0085] By having this configuration, the liquid ejection system 10 can cause the notification unit 254 to issue a first notification when a set of first information D1 and second information D2 identical to that of the first printer is input to the determination unit 352 of the server 300 for a second printer that is manufactured by the same manufacturer as a first printer that has an authentic head installed and that has an unauthorized head installed.

[0086] The liquid ejection head 110a also has a memory circuit 113 that stores first information D1. The liquid ejection device 100 also has a memory circuit 140 that stores second information D2. The acquisition unit 251 acquires the first information D1 by reading out the first information D1 stored in the memory circuit 113. The acquisition unit 251 also acquires the second information D2 by reading out the second information D2 stored in the memory circuit 140.

[0087] The liquid ejection system 10 has this configuration, so that the acquisition section 251 can acquire the first information D1 and the second information D2 without relying on manual input by the user of the liquid ejection device 100, for example.

[0088] The first information D1 is the serial number of the liquid ejection head 110a.

[0089] By having this configuration, the liquid ejection system 10 can use information specific to the liquid ejection head 110a as the first information D1.

[0090] The second information D2 is at least one of the manufacturer name and product number of the liquid ejection device 100.

[0091] By having this configuration, the liquid ejection system 10 can use at least one of the manufacturer name and product number of the liquid ejection device 100 as the second information D2.

[0092] 2. Second embodiment A second embodiment of the present invention will be described below. In the following exemplary embodiment, for elements whose actions or functions are similar to those of the first embodiment, the reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment will be used and detailed descriptions of each element will be omitted as appropriate.

[0093] 2-1. Overview of the liquid ejection system 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a liquid ejection system 10A according to the second embodiment. The liquid ejection system 10A differs from the liquid ejection system 10 according to the first embodiment in that it has a first processing device 200A instead of the first processing device 200, and in that it further has a second processing device 400 and a third processing device 500.

[0094] 7, in the liquid ejection system 10A, similarly to the liquid ejection system 10, first information D1 and second information D2 are transmitted from the liquid ejection device 100 to the first processing device 200A. Furthermore, the first information D1 and second information D2 are transmitted from the first processing device 200A to the server 300A. Meanwhile, third information D3 is transmitted from the server 300A to the first processing device 200A. In addition, fourth information D4 is transmitted from the server 300A to the first processing device 200A. Furthermore, second information D2 is transmitted from the server 300A to the second processing device 400. Furthermore, fifth information D5 is transmitted from the server 300A to the third processing device 500. Details of the fourth information D4 and the fifth information D5 will be described later with reference to FIGS. 8, 9, 10, and 11.

[0095] 2-2. Configuration of the first processing device 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a first processing device 200A used in a liquid ejection system 10A according to the second embodiment. The first processing device 200A differs from the first processing device 200 according to the first embodiment in that the memory circuitry 240 further stores fourth information D4 and key information KD1, and in that the processing circuitry 250 is replaced by a processing circuitry 250A.

[0096] The fourth information D4 is information indicating the result of comparing the legitimate activation key generated by the server 300A with the activation key input from the first processing device 200A to enable the liquid ejection device 100 to perform a predetermined function. The legitimate activation key generated by the server 300A is an example of a first activation key. On the other hand, the activation key input from the first processing device 200A is an example of a second activation key. Here, the "activation key" refers to a character string input by the user of the liquid ejection device 100 to authenticate the right to use a predetermined function.

[0097] The key information KD1 is key information indicating a legitimate activation key generated by the server 300A.

[0098] Processing circuit 250A differs from processing circuit 250 according to the first embodiment in that it has a transmitting unit 252A instead of transmitting unit 252, a receiving unit 253A instead of receiving unit 253, a notification unit 254A instead of notification unit 254, and further has a function executing unit 255, a display control unit 256, and a determination unit 257.

[0099] Similar to the transmitting unit 252, the transmitting unit 252A causes the server 300A to transmit the acquired first information D1 and second information D2 to the connecting unit 231. Furthermore, the transmitting unit 252A causes the server 300A to transmit key information KD2 indicating the activation key input from the input device 220 to the connecting unit 231, as will be described later.

[0100] Similar to the receiving unit 253, the receiving unit 253A causes the connection unit 231 to receive the third information D3 from the server 300A. The receiving unit 253A also stores the received third information D3 in the memory circuit 240. The receiving unit 253A also causes the connection unit 231 to receive key information KD1 indicating a legitimate activation key from the server 300A. The receiving unit 253A also stores the received key information KD1 in the memory circuit 240. The receiving unit 253A also causes the connection unit 231 to receive fourth information D4 from the server 300A. The receiving unit 253A also stores the received fourth information D4 in the memory circuit 240.

[0101] Similar to the notification unit 254, the notification unit 254A outputs a notification related to the liquid ejection device 100 to the outside of the first processing device 200 based on the third information D3. Furthermore, if the collation result indicated by the fourth information D4 is false, the notification unit 254A notifies the outside of the first processing device 200 of an error.

[0102] The function execution unit 255 causes the liquid ejection device 100 to perform a predetermined function based on the fourth information D4. Here, the "predetermined function" mainly refers to all functions that can be performed by the liquid ejection device 100 and the server 300A being connected to each other. Specifically, the "predetermined function" includes, for example, a function in which the liquid ejection device 100 acquires from the server 300A the waveform of the drive signal Com optimized for the liquid ejection head 110a. Note that in this case, information indicating the waveform of the drive signal Com is added to the fourth information D4 that the first processing device 200A receives from the server 300A.

[0103] Furthermore, if the server 300A described below determines that the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is not stored in advance in the server 300A, the function execution unit 255 will not allow the liquid ejection device 100 to perform the specified function of the function execution unit 255.

[0104] The display control unit 256 causes the display device 210 to display a display that prompts the user of the liquid ejection device 100 to input the first information D1 and the second information D2. The user of the liquid ejection device 100 inputs the first information D1 and the second information D2 from the input device 220 based on the display displayed on the display device 210. The acquisition unit 251 acquires the first information D1 and the second information D2 input from the input device 220. Note that, similar to the first embodiment, the acquisition unit 251 may acquire the first information D1 and the second information D2 by communicating with the liquid ejection device 100 using the connection unit 231.

[0105] Furthermore, the display control unit 256 causes the display device 210 to display a display for prompting the user of the liquid ejection device 100 to input an activation key. The user of the liquid ejection device 100 inputs the activation key from the input device 220 in accordance with the instructions displayed on the display device 210. Key information KD2 indicating the input activation key is transmitted to the server 300A by the transmission unit 252A.

[0106] The determination unit 257 determines whether the determination result indicated by the third information D3 received by the receiving unit 253A is true or false.

[0107] If the third information D3 indicates false, the notification unit 254 issues the above-mentioned first notification to the outside.

[0108] 2-3. Server configuration FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a server 300A used in a liquid ejection system 10A according to the second embodiment.

[0109] The server 300A differs from the server 300 according to the first embodiment in that the memory circuit 340 further stores fourth information D4 and fifth information D5, and in that the server 300A has a processing circuit 350A instead of the processing circuit 350.

[0110] The fifth information D5 is information indicating an instruction to make a second notification to the second processing device 400, which will be described later. The second notification will be described in detail later.

[0111] Processing circuit 350A differs from processing circuit 350 according to the first embodiment in that it has a judgment unit 352A instead of judgment unit 352, a transmission unit 353A instead of transmission unit 353, and further has a key information generation unit 354, a reception unit 355, and a matching unit 356.

[0112] Similar to the determination unit 352, the determination unit 352A determines whether or not the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is stored in advance in the server 300. If the determination unit 352A determines that the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is stored in advance in the server 300, the determination unit 352A generates the third information D3. On the other hand, if the determination unit 352A determines that the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is not stored in advance in the server 300, the determination unit 352A generates the third information D3 and the fifth information D5.

[0113] Like the transmitting unit 353, the transmitting unit 353A causes the first processing device 200A to transmit the third information D3 and the fourth information D4 to the connecting unit 331. The transmitting unit 353A also causes the second processing device 400 to transmit the fifth information D5 to the connecting unit 331. Furthermore, when the determining unit 352A determines that the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is not pre-stored in the server 300A, the transmitting unit 353A causes the third processing device 500 to transmit the second information D2 to the connecting unit 331. Note that when the determining unit 352A determines that the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is pre-stored in the server 300A, the transmitting unit 353A does not cause the third processing device 500 to transmit the second information D2 to the connecting unit 331. The transmitting unit 353A is an example of a third transmitting unit.

[0114] The key information generation unit 354 generates key information KD1 indicating an activation key when the determination unit 352A determines that the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is pre-stored in the storage circuit 340. More specifically, the key information generation unit 354 generates key information KD1 such that the activation key varies depending on the first information D1.

[0115] The reception unit 355 receives the activation key input from the first processing device 200A. More specifically, the reception unit 355 receives key information KD2 indicating the activation key input from the first processing device 200A, using the connection unit 331 of the communication device 330.

[0116] The matching unit 356 matches key information KD1 indicating the activation key generated by the key information generation unit 354 with key information KD2 indicating the activation key accepted by the acceptance unit 355. The matching unit 356 also generates fourth information D4 indicating the matching result.

[0117] 2-4. Configuration of the second processing device 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a second processing device 400 used in a liquid ejection system 10A according to the second embodiment. The second processing device 400 is a desktop or notebook computer, and is intended for use by the manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100. If the liquid ejection head 110a of the liquid ejection device 100 is not a genuine product, the second processing device 400 notifies the manufacturer that the liquid ejection head 110a is not a genuine product.

[0118] 10, the second processing device 400 includes a display device 410, an input device 420, a communication device 430, a memory circuit 440, and a processing circuit 450. These are communicatively connected to each other.

[0119] The display device 410 displays various images under the control of the processing circuit 450. Here, the display device 410 has various display panels such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL display panel. The display device 410 may be provided outside the second processing device 400.

[0120] The input device 420 is a device that accepts operations from a user. For example, the input device 420 has a pointing device such as a touchpad, a touch panel, or a mouse. Here, if the input device 420 has a touch panel, it may also serve as the display device 410. Note that the input device 420 may be provided outside the second processing device 400.

[0121] The communication device 430 is a circuit communicatively connected to the server 300A. For example, the communication device 430 is an interface such as a wireless or wired LAN, USB, or the like. The communication device 430 receives the fifth information D5 from the server 300A through communication with the server 300A. That is, the communication device 430 functions as a connection unit 431 communicatively connected to the server 300A. Note that the communication device 430 may be integrated with the processing circuit 450.

[0122] The memory circuitry 440 is a device that stores various programs executed by the processing circuitry 450 and various data processed by the processing circuitry 450. The memory circuitry 440 includes, for example, a hard disk drive or a semiconductor memory. Note that part or all of the memory circuitry 440 may be provided in an external storage device, server, or the like external to the second processing device 400.

[0123] In this embodiment, the storage circuitry 440 stores a program PG3 and fifth information D5. Note that part or all of the program PG3 and the fifth information D5 may be stored in an external storage device, server, or the like external to the second processing device 400.

[0124] The processing circuit 450 is a device that has the function of controlling each unit of the second processing device 400 and the function of processing various types of data. The processing circuit 450 has a processor such as a CPU. The processing circuit 450 may be configured with a single processor or multiple processors. Furthermore, some or all of the functions of the processing circuit 450 may be realized by hardware such as a DSP, ASIC, PLD, or FPGA.

[0125] The processing circuitry 450 functions as a receiving unit 451 and a notifying unit 452 by reading and executing the program PG3 from the storage circuitry 440.

[0126] The receiving unit 451 receives the fifth information D5 by communicating with the server 300A using the connection unit 431. The receiving unit 451 stores the received fifth information D5 in the memory circuit 440.

[0127] The notification unit 452 outputs a notification related to the liquid ejection device 100 to the outside of the second processing device 400 based on the fifth information D5. For example, the notification unit 254 causes the display device 410 to display the notification by using a display control unit (not shown). The notification includes a notification from the manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100 indicating that the liquid ejection head 110a used to manufacture the liquid ejection device 100 is not a genuine product. Note that the above notification is an example of a second notification.

[0128] 2-5.Configuration of the third processing device 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a third processing device 500 used in the liquid ejection system 10 according to the second embodiment. The third processing device 500 is a desktop or notebook computer, and is intended for use by, for example, the manufacturer of the liquid ejection head 110a. The third processing device 500 updates the correspondence information CD1 stored in the server 300A.

[0129] 11, the third processing device 500 includes a display device 510, an input device 520, a communication device 530, a memory circuit 540, and a processing circuit 550. These are communicatively connected to each other.

[0130] The display device 510 displays various images under the control of the processing circuit 550. Here, the display device 510 has various display panels such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL display panel. The display device 510 may be provided outside the third processing device 500.

[0131] The input device 520 is a device that accepts operations from a user. For example, the input device 520 has a pointing device such as a touchpad, a touch panel, or a mouse. Here, if the input device 520 has a touch panel, it may also serve as the display device 510. Note that the input device 520 may be provided outside the third processing device 500.

[0132] The communication device 530 is a circuit communicatively connected to the server 300A. For example, the communication device 530 is an interface such as a wireless or wired LAN or USB. The communication device 530 updates the correspondence information CD1 held by the server 300A by communicating with the server 300A. That is, the communication device 530 functions as a connection unit 531 communicatively connected to the server 300A. The communication device 530 may be integrated with the processing circuit 550.

[0133] The memory circuitry 540 is a device that stores various programs executed by the processing circuitry 550 and various data processed by the processing circuitry 550. The memory circuitry 540 includes, for example, a hard disk drive or a semiconductor memory. Note that part or all of the memory circuitry 540 may be provided in a memory device or server external to the third processing device 500. The memory circuitry 540 is an example of an external memory unit.

[0134] In this embodiment, the storage circuitry 540 stores a program PG4, second information D2, and corresponding information CD2. Here, the corresponding information CD2 is the latest corresponding information. Note that some or all of the program PG4, second information D2, and corresponding information CD2 may be stored in a storage device, server, or the like external to the third processing device 500.

[0135] The processing circuit 550 is a device that has the function of controlling each unit of the third processing device 500 and the function of processing various types of data. The processing circuit 550 has a processor such as a CPU. The processing circuit 550 may be configured with a single processor or multiple processors. Furthermore, some or all of the functions of the processing circuit 550 may be realized by hardware such as a DSP, ASIC, PLD, or FPGA.

[0136] The processing circuit 550 functions as a receiving unit 551 and an updating unit 552 by reading and executing the program PG4 from the storage circuit 540.

[0137] The receiving unit 551 receives the second information D2 by communicating with the server 300A using the connection unit 531. The receiving unit 551 stores the received second information D2 in the memory circuit 540.

[0138] As described above, in the server 300A, if the determination unit 352A determines that the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is not stored in advance in the server 300A, the transmission unit 353A causes the third processing device 500 to transmit the second information D2 to the connection unit 331. On the other hand, if the determination unit 352A determines that the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is stored in advance in the server 300A, the transmission unit 353A does not cause the third processing device 500 to transmit the second information D2 to the connection unit 331. In other words, the second information D2 received by the reception unit 551 and stored in the memory circuit 540 indicates at least one of the manufacturer name and the product number of the liquid ejection device 100 that does not use the genuine liquid ejection head 110a.

[0139] The update unit 552 communicates with the server 300A using the connection unit 531 to update the correspondence information CD1 stored in the server 300A with the latest correspondence information CD2 stored in the storage circuit 540.

[0140] 2-6. Liquid Discharge System Processing 12A and 12B are flowcharts showing the processing of the liquid ejection system 10A according to the second embodiment.

[0141] In step S201, the processing circuit 250A of the first processing device 200A functions as the acquiring unit 251 to acquire the first information D1.

[0142] In step S202, the processing circuit 250A of the first processing device 200A functions as the acquiring unit 251 to acquire the second information D2.

[0143] In step S203, the processing circuit 250A of the first processing device 200A functions as a transmitting unit 252A to transmit the first information D1 and the second information D2 to the server 300A. Also, the processing circuit 350A of the server 300A functions as a receiving unit 351 to receive the first information D1 and the second information D2.

[0144] In step S204, the processing circuit 350A of the server 300A functions as the determination unit 352A to determine whether or not the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is pre-stored in the server 300A. If the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is pre-stored in the server 300A, that is, if the determination result is true, the processing circuit 350A executes the process of step S205. On the other hand, if the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is not pre-stored in the server 300A, that is, if the determination result is false, the processing circuit 350A executes the process of step S208.

[0145] In step S205, the processing circuit 350A of the server 300A functions as the determination unit 352A to generate third information D3 indicating a true determination result.

[0146] In step S206, the processing circuit 350A of the server 300A generates an activation key by functioning as the key information generation unit 354. Furthermore, the processing circuit 350A of the server 300A also functions as the key information generation unit 354 to generate key information KD1 indicating the activation key, and notifies the user of the liquid ejection device 100 of the key information KD1. As a specific notification method, for example, a notification destination such as an email address where the user of the liquid ejection device 100 has an account is registered in advance, and notification is sent to that destination.

[0147] In step S207, the processing circuit 350A of the server 300 functions as a transmitting unit 353A to transmit the third information D3 to the first processing device 200A. Also, the processing circuit 250A of the first processing device 200A functions as a receiving unit 253A to receive the third information D3.

[0148] In step S208, the processing circuit 350A of the server 300A functions as the determination unit 352A to generate third information D3 indicating a false determination result.

[0149] In step S209, the processing circuit 350A of the server 300 functions as a transmitting unit 353A to transmit the third information D3 to the first processing device 200A. Also, the processing circuit 250A of the first processing device 200A functions as a receiving unit 253A to receive the third information D3.

[0150] In step S210, the processing circuit 350A of the server 300 functions as the determination unit 352A to generate the fifth information D5.

[0151] In step S211, the processing circuit 350A of the server 300 functions as a transmitting unit 353A to transmit the fifth information D5 to the second processing device 400. In addition, the processing circuit 450 of the second processing device 400 functions as a receiving unit 451 to receive the fifth information D5.

[0152] In step S212, the processing circuit 450 of the second processing device 400 functions as the notification unit 452 to issue a second notification related to the liquid ejection device 100 to the outside of the second processing device 400. Thereafter, the processing circuit 450 ends all processing.

[0153] In step S213, the processing circuit 250A of the first processing device 200A functions as the determination unit 257 to determine whether the determination result indicated by the third information D3 is true. If the determination result is true, the processing circuit 250A of the first processing device 200A executes the process of step S214. If the determination result is false, the processing circuit 250A of the first processing device 200A executes the process of step S216.

[0154] In step S214, the processing circuit 250A of the first processing device 200A accepts the activation key input from the input device 220 by the user of the liquid ejection device 100.

[0155] In step S215, the processing circuit 250A of the first processing device 200A functions as the transmitting unit 252A, thereby causing the server 300 to transmit key information KD2 indicating the activation key input from the input device 220 to the connection unit 231. Furthermore, the processing circuit 350A of the server 300A functions as the receiving unit 355, thereby receiving the key information KD2 indicating the activation key input from the first processing device 200A.

[0156] In step S216, the processing circuit 250A of the first processing device 200A performs the first notification to the outside by functioning as the notification section 254. After that, the processing circuit 250A ends all processing.

[0157] In step S217, the processing circuit 350A of the server 300A functions as the matching unit 356 to match the key information KD1 indicating the activation key generated by the key information generation unit 354 with the key information KD2 indicating the activation key accepted by the acceptance unit 355. Furthermore, the processing circuit 350A of the server 300A functions as the matching unit 356 to generate fourth information D4 indicating the matching result.

[0158] In step S218, the processing circuit 350A of the server 300A, functioning as the transmitting unit 353A, causes the connection unit 331 to transmit the fourth information D4 to the first processing device 200A. Thereafter, the processing circuit 350A ends all processing. Also, the processing circuit 250A of the first processing device 200A, functioning as the receiving unit 253A, causes the connection unit 231 to receive the fourth information D4 from the server 300A.

[0159] In step S219, if the collation result indicated by the fourth information D4 is true, the processing circuit 250A of the first processing device 200A executes the process of step S220. If the collation result indicated by the fourth information D4 is false, the processing circuit 250A of the first processing device 200A executes the process of step S221.

[0160] In step S220, the processing circuit 250A of the first processing device 200A functions as the function execution unit 255 to cause the liquid ejection device 100 to perform a predetermined function. Specifically, the processing circuit 250A functions as the function execution unit 255 to remove the function restrictions on the liquid ejection device 100. Thereafter, the processing circuit 250A ends all processing.

[0161] In step S221, the processing circuit 250A of the first processing device 200A notifies the error by functioning as the notification section 254A, after which the processing circuit 250A ends all processing.

[0162] 2-7. Effects of the liquid ejection system The liquid ejection system 10A according to this embodiment further includes a function execution unit 255 that causes the liquid ejection device 100 to perform a predetermined function based on the fourth information D4. The transmission unit 353A transmits the fourth information D4 from the server 300A via a network connection. The reception unit 253A receives the fourth information D4 from the server 300A via a network connection.

[0163] The liquid ejection system 10A has this configuration, and therefore the liquid ejection device 100 can perform a predetermined function based on the fourth information D4 transmitted from the server 300A.

[0164] Furthermore, in the liquid ejection system 10A according to this embodiment, if the determination unit 352A determines that the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is not stored in advance in the server 300A, the function execution unit 255 does not allow the liquid ejection device 100 to perform the above-mentioned specified function.

[0165] Because the liquid ejection system 10A has this configuration, if the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is not stored in advance in the server 300A, the liquid ejection device 100 can restrict the execution of a specified function based on the fourth information D4 sent from the server 300A.

[0166] The liquid ejection system 10A according to this embodiment further includes a key information generation unit 354 and a reception unit 355. When the determination unit 352A determines that the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is pre-stored in the server 300A, the key information generation unit 354 generates key information KD1 indicating a first activation key. The reception unit 355 receives input of key information KD2 indicating a second activation key. When the first activation key indicated by the key information KD1 matches the second activation key received by the reception unit 355 in the server 300A, the transmission unit 353A transmits fourth information D4 from the server 300A via a network connection.

[0167] The liquid ejection system 10A has this configuration, so that the user of the liquid ejection device 100 can use the activation key issued by the liquid ejection system 10A to perform predetermined functions using the liquid ejection device 100.

[0168] Furthermore, the key information generating unit 354 generates the key information KD1 in accordance with the first information D1 received by the receiving unit 351 so that the activation key will be different.

[0169] The liquid ejection system 10A has this configuration, so that the activation key can be changed in accordance with the first information D1 held by the liquid ejection head 110a.

[0170] Furthermore, the liquid ejection system 10A according to this embodiment includes a transmission unit 353A. If the determination unit 352A determines that the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is not stored in advance in the server 300A, the transmission unit 353A transmits, via a network connection, fifth information D5 for causing the liquid ejection head 110a, the liquid ejection device 100, and the second processing device 400, which is different from the first processing device 200A, to make a second notification.

[0171] By having this configuration, the liquid ejection system 10A can issue a specific notification from the second processing device 400 when the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is not stored in advance in the server 300A.

[0172] Furthermore, in the liquid ejection system 10A according to this embodiment, the second notification includes a notification from the manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100 indicating that the liquid ejection head 110a used to manufacture the liquid ejection device 100 is not a genuine product.

[0173] With this configuration, the liquid ejection system 10A can issue a notification from the second processing device 400 indicating that the liquid ejection head 110a is not genuine if the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is not stored in advance in the server 300A. For example, a printer manufacturer can use the second processing device 400 to recognize that a non-genuine liquid ejection head 110a has been used.

[0174] Moreover, the liquid ejection system 10A according to this embodiment further includes a third processing device 500 that is connected to the server 300A via a network.

[0175] With this configuration, the liquid ejection system 10A can access the server 300A from a third processing device 500 that is different from the first processing device 200 and the second processing device 400. Specifically, it becomes possible for head manufacturers to access the server 300A from the third processing device 500.

[0176] Furthermore, in the liquid ejection system 10A according to this embodiment, the third processing device 500 has a memory circuitry 540. If the determination unit 352A determines that the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is not stored in advance in the server 300A, the memory circuitry 540 stores the second information D2. If the determination unit 352A determines that the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is stored in advance in the server 300A, the memory circuitry 540 does not store the second information D2.

[0177] Because the liquid ejection system 10A has this configuration, the second information D2 stored in the memory circuit 540 of the third processing device 500 indicates at least one of the manufacturer name and model number of the liquid ejection device 100 that does not use a genuine liquid ejection head 110a.

[0178] 3. Third embodiment A third embodiment of the present invention will be described below. In the following exemplary embodiments, elements whose actions or functions are similar to those of the first embodiment will be designated by the same reference numerals as those used in the description of the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions of each element will be omitted where appropriate.

[0179] 3-1. Overview of the liquid ejection system Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a liquid ejection system 10B according to the third embodiment. In the example shown in Fig. 13, the liquid ejection system 10B includes liquid ejection devices 100A_1 to 100A_3, first processing devices 200B_1 to 200B_3, and a server 300. Note that, hereinafter, the liquid ejection devices 100A_1 to 100A_3 will be collectively referred to as "liquid ejection device 100A." Similarly, the first processing devices 200B_1 to 200B_3 will be collectively referred to as "first processing device 200B."

[0180] The liquid ejecting devices 100A_1 to 100A_3 and the first processing devices 200B_1 to 200B_3 correspond one-to-one to each other. Note that, although three liquid ejecting devices 100A_1 to 100A_3 and three first processing devices 200B_1 to 200B_3 are shown in Fig. 13, this is just an example, and the liquid ejecting system 10B may have any number of pairs of liquid ejecting devices 100A and first processing devices 200B.

[0181] In the liquid ejection system 10B, the liquid ejection device 100A is connected wirelessly or wired to a first processing device 200B and a server 300 so that they can communicate with each other. This connection may involve a communication network NW including the Internet.

[0182] 13, the first information D1 and the second information D2 are transmitted from the liquid ejection device 100A to the server 300. Meanwhile, the third information D3 is transmitted from the server 300 to the liquid ejection device 100A. The third information D3 is also transmitted from the liquid ejection device 100A to the first processing device 200B.

[0183] 3-2. Configuration of the liquid ejection device 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a liquid ejection device 100A used in a liquid ejection system 10B according to the third embodiment. The liquid ejection device 100A differs from the liquid ejection device 100 according to the first embodiment in that a control module 110b includes a communication device 117, a memory circuit 118, and a processing circuit 119.

[0184] The communication device 117 is a circuit communicatively connected to the server 300. For example, the communication device 117 is an interface such as a wireless or wired LAN or USB. The communication device 117 transmits the first information D1 and the second information D2 and receives the third information D3 through communication with the server 300. That is, the communication device 117 functions as a connection unit 171 communicatively connected to the server 300. The communication device 117 may be integrated with the processing circuit 119. The connection unit 171 is an example of a first connection unit.

[0185] The storage circuitry 118 of this embodiment stores a data set DG, similar to the storage circuitry 240 of the first processing device 200 according to the first embodiment. Note that part or all of the data set DG may be stored in a storage device, a server, or the like external to the liquid ejection device 100A.

[0186] The processing circuitry 119 reads and executes the program PG1 from the storage circuitry 118 or the storage circuitry 140, thereby operating as a functional unit FG in the same manner as the processing circuitry 250 of the first processing device 200 according to the first embodiment.

[0187] The acquiring unit 251 acquires the first information D1 from the storage circuitry 118. The acquiring unit 251 also acquires the second information D2 from the storage circuitry 118. The acquiring unit 251 is an example of a first acquiring unit.

[0188] The transmitting unit 252 causes the server 300 to transmit the acquired first information D1 and second information D2 to the connecting unit 171. The transmitting unit 152 also causes the first processing device 200A to transmit the third information D3 stored in the memory circuit 140 to the communication device 130. The transmitting unit 252 is an example of a first transmitting unit.

[0189] The receiving unit 253 causes the connection unit 171 to receive the third information D3 from the server 300. The receiving unit 253 also stores the received third information D3 in the memory circuit 118. The receiving unit 253 is an example of a second receiving unit.

[0190] 3-3. Configuration of the first processing device 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a first processing device 200B used in a liquid ejection system 10B according to the third embodiment. The first processing device 200B differs from the first processing device 200 according to the first embodiment in that it does not require the storage circuitry 240 to store the first information D1 and the second information D2, and in that it has a processing circuitry 250B instead of the processing circuitry 250.

[0191] The processing circuit 250B differs from the processing circuit 250 according to the first embodiment in that the acquisition unit 251 is not an essential component.

[0192] 3-4. Liquid Discharge System Processing FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the processing of the liquid ejection system 10B according to the third embodiment.

[0193] In step S301, the processing circuitry 119 of the liquid ejection device 100A functions as the acquisition section 251 to acquire the first information D1.

[0194] In step S302, the processing circuitry 119 of the liquid ejection device 100A functions as the acquisition section 251 to acquire the second information D2.

[0195] In step S303, the processing circuitry 119 of the liquid ejection device 100A functions as a transmitting unit 252 to transmit the first information D1 and the second information D2 to the server 300. The processing circuitry 350 of the server 300 functions as a receiving unit 351 to receive the first information D1 and the second information D2.

[0196] In step S304, the processing circuit 350 of the server 300 functions as the determination unit 352 to determine whether the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is stored in the server 300 in advance.

[0197] In step S305, the processing circuit 350 of the server 300 functions as the determination unit 352 to generate third information D3 indicating the determination result.

[0198] In step S306, the processing circuitry 350 of the server 300 functions as the transmitting unit 353 to transmit the third information D3 to the liquid ejection device 100A. Thereafter, the processing circuitry 350 of the server 300 ends all processing. Furthermore, the processing circuitry 150 of the liquid ejection device 100A functions as the receiving unit 153 to receive the third information D3.

[0199] In step S307, the processing circuit 150A of the liquid ejection device 100A functions as the transmitting unit 152 to transmit the third information D3 to the first processing device 200B. Thereafter, the processing circuit 150A of the liquid ejection device 100A ends all processing. Furthermore, the processing circuit 250B of the first processing device 200B functions as the receiving unit 253 to receive the third information D3.

[0200] If the third information D3 indicates true, i.e., if the answer is YES in step S308, the processing circuit 250B of the first processing device 200B ends all processing. If the third information D3 indicates false, i.e., if the answer is NO in step S308, the processing circuit 250B of the first processing device 200B executes the processing of step S309.

[0201] In step S309, the processing circuit 250B of the first processing device 200B functions as the notification unit 254 to output a first notification related to the liquid ejection device 100A to the outside of the first processing device 200B based on the third information D3. Thereafter, the processing circuit 250B of the first processing device 200B ends all processing.

[0202] 3-5. Effects of the liquid ejection system In the liquid ejection system 10B according to this embodiment, the liquid ejection device 100A has a connection unit 171 that can be connected to a server 300 via a network. The transmission unit 252 causes the connection unit 171 to transmit the first information D1 and the second information D2 to the server 300. The reception unit 253 causes the connection unit 171 to receive the third information D3 from the server 300.

[0203] The liquid ejection system 10B has this configuration, so that the first information D1 and the second information D2 can be transmitted directly from the liquid ejection device 100A to the server 300.

[0204] 4. Fourth embodiment A fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described below. In the following exemplary embodiments, elements whose actions or functions are similar to those of the first embodiment will be designated by the same reference numerals as those used in the description of the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions of each element will be omitted where appropriate.

[0205] 4-1. Overview of the liquid ejection system Fig. 17 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a liquid ejection system 10C according to a fourth embodiment. In the example shown in Fig. 17, the liquid ejection system 10C includes liquid ejection devices 100_1 to 100_3, first processing devices 200C_1 to 200C_3, external devices 600_1 to 600_3, and a server 300. Note that, hereinafter, the first processing devices 200C_1 to 200C_3 are collectively referred to as "first processing devices 200C." Similarly, the external devices 600_1 to 600_3 are collectively referred to as "external devices 600."

[0206] The liquid ejection devices 100_1 to 100_3, the first processing devices 200C_1 to 200C_3, and the external devices 600_1 to 600_3 correspond to one another in a one-to-one-to-one relationship. Note that, although three liquid ejection devices 100_1 to 100_3, three first processing devices 200C_1 to 200C_3, and three external devices 600_1 to 600_3 are shown in Fig. 17, this is just an example, and the liquid ejection system 10C has any number of pairs of liquid ejection devices 100, first processing devices 200C, and external devices 600.

[0207] In the liquid ejection system 10C, the first processing device 200C is connected to the liquid ejection device 100 and the external device 600 wirelessly or via a wire so that they can communicate with each other. The external device 600 is also connected to the first processing device 200C and the server 300 wirelessly or via a wire so that they can communicate with each other. This connection may involve a communication network NW, including the Internet.

[0208] 17, the liquid ejection device 100A transmits the first information D1 and the second information D2 to the first processing device 200C. The first information D1 and the second information D2 are also transmitted from the first processing device 200C to the external device 600. The first information D1 and the second information D2 are also transmitted from the external device 600 to the server 300. Meanwhile, the server 300 transmits the third information D3 to the external device 600.

[0209] 4-2. Configuration of the first processing device 18 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a first processing device 200C used in a liquid ejection system 10C according to the fourth embodiment. The first processing device 200C differs from the first processing device 200 according to the first embodiment in that it does not require the storage of the third information D3 by the memory circuitry 240, has a processing circuit 250C instead of the processing circuitry 250, and has a communication device 230A instead of the communication device 230.

[0210] The communication device 230A is a circuit communicatively connected to the liquid ejection device 100 and the external device 600. For example, the communication device 230A is an interface such as a wireless or wired LAN or USB. The communication device 230A receives first information D1 and second information D2 through communication with the liquid ejection device 100. That is, the communication device 230A functions as a connection unit 231 communicatively connected to the liquid ejection device 100. The communication device 230A transmits the first information D1 and second information D2 through short-range wireless communication with the external device 600. That is, the communication device 230A functions as a short-range connection unit 232 communicatively connected to the external device 600. Here, short-range wireless communication is realized according to specifications such as Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), and Near Field Communication (NFC). Bluetooth is a registered trademark. The communication device 230A may be integrated with the processing circuit 250C.

[0211] Processing circuit 250C differs from processing circuit 250 according to the first embodiment in that it has transmitting unit 252B instead of transmitting unit 252, and in that it further has function executing unit 255 included in processing circuit 250A according to the second embodiment.

[0212] The transmitting unit 252B causes the short-distance connecting unit 232 to transmit the acquired first information D1 and second information D2 to the external device 600. The transmitting unit 252B is an example of a first transmitting unit.

[0213] 4-3. External device configuration 19 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an external device 600 used in a liquid ejection system 10C according to the fourth embodiment. The external device 600 is a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet, and is intended for use by a user of the liquid ejection device 100. If the liquid ejection head 110a of the liquid ejection device 100 is not a genuine product, the external device 600 notifies the user that the liquid ejection head 110a is not a genuine product.

[0214] 19, the external device 600 includes a display device 610, an input device 620, a communication device 630, a memory circuit 640, and a processing circuit 650. These are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0215] The display device 610 displays various images under the control of the processing circuit 650. Here, the display device 610 has various display panels such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL display panel. The display device 610 may be provided outside the external device 600.

[0216] The input device 620 is a device that accepts operations from a user. For example, the input device 620 has a pointing device such as a touchpad, a touch panel, or a mouse. Here, if the input device 620 has a touch panel, it may also serve as the display device 610. Note that the input device 620 may be provided outside the external device 600.

[0217] The communication device 630 is a circuit communicatively connected to the first processing device 200C and the server 300. For example, the communication device 630 is an interface such as a wireless or wired LAN or USB. The communication device 630 receives the third information D3 through communication with the server 300. That is, the communication device 630 functions as a connection unit 631 communicatively connected to the server 300. The communication device 630 receives the first information D1 and the second information D2 through short-range wireless communication with the first processing device 200C. That is, the communication device 630 functions as a short-range connection unit 632 communicatively connected to the first processing device 200C. The communication device 630 may be integrated with the processing circuit 650.

[0218] The storage circuitry 640 is a device that stores various programs executed by the processing circuitry 650 and various data processed by the processing circuitry 650. The storage circuitry 640 includes, for example, a hard disk drive or a semiconductor memory. Note that part or all of the storage circuitry 640 may be provided in a storage device, a server, or the like external to the external device 600.

[0219] In this embodiment, the storage circuitry 640 stores a program PG5, first information D1, second information D2, and third information D3. Note that some or all of the program PG5, first information D1, second information D2, and third information D3 may be stored in a storage device, a server, or the like external to the external device 600.

[0220] The processing circuit 650 is a device that has the function of controlling each part of the external device 600 and the function of processing various types of data. The processing circuit 650 has a processor such as a CPU. The processing circuit 650 may be configured with a single processor or multiple processors. Furthermore, some or all of the functions of the processing circuit 650 may be realized by hardware such as a DSP, ASIC, PLD, or FPGA.

[0221] The processing circuitry 650 functions as an acquisition unit 651, a transmission unit 652, a reception unit 653, a notification unit 654, and a display control unit 655 by reading and executing the program PG5 from the storage circuitry 640.

[0222] The acquisition unit 651 acquires the first information D1 and the second information D2 by communicating with the first processing device 200C using the short-range connection unit 632. The acquisition unit 651 stores the acquired first information D1 and second information D2 in the memory circuitry 640. The acquisition unit 651 is an example of a second acquisition unit.

[0223] The transmitting unit 652 causes the connecting unit 631 to transmit the acquired first information D1 and second information D2 to the server 300. The transmitting unit 652 is an example of a first transmitting unit.

[0224] The receiving unit 653 causes the connection unit 631 to receive the third information D3 from the server 300. The receiving unit 653 also stores the received third information D3 in the storage circuit 640. The receiving unit 653 is an example of a second receiving unit.

[0225] The notification unit 654 outputs a notification related to the liquid ejection device 100 to the display control unit 655 based on the third information D3. The notification may be, for example, a notification that reminds the user of the liquid ejection device 100 to use a genuine liquid ejection head 110a. Alternatively, the notification may be, for example, a notification that prompts the user of the liquid ejection device 100 to inquire with the manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100. The notification unit 254 is an example of a first notification unit. The above notification is also an example of a first notification.

[0226] The display control unit 655 causes the display device 610 to display a display that prompts the user of the liquid ejection device 100 to input first information D1 and second information D2. The user of the liquid ejection device 100 inputs the first information D1 and second information D2 from the input device 620 based on the display displayed on the display device 210. The acquisition unit 651 acquires the first information D1 and second information D2 input from the input device 620. Note that, as described above, the acquisition unit 651 may acquire the first information D1 and second information D2 by communicating with the first processing device 200C using the short-range connection unit 632.

[0227] Furthermore, the display control unit 256 causes the display device 210 to display the notification received from the notification unit 654.

[0228] 20A to 20C show examples of a display screen of external device 600. As shown in FIG. 20A, external device 600 includes sound generation unit 601, sound reception unit 605, display 610A as display device 610 and input device 620, and selection button 620A and decision button 620B as input device 620. Sound generation unit 601 is a sound emitting device that conveys information to the user of external device 600 by sound. Sound reception unit 605 is a sound collecting device that converts the sound of the user of external device 600 into an audio signal and inputs the converted audio signal. Display 610A is a device that conveys information to the user of external device 600 by text and images. In addition, a touch panel is laminated on the surface of display 610A, and the touch panel receives input from the user of external device 600 using a finger or a touch pen. The selection button 620A is, for example, a cross key, and receives, for example, an operation to instruct switching of an input field displayed on the display 610A. The decision button 620B receives, for example, an operation to instruct confirmation of input content by the user of the external device 600.

[0229] FIG. 20A is an example of a display screen prompting the user of the external device 600 to input the serial number of the liquid ejection head 110a and the manufacturer name of the liquid ejection device 100. As shown in FIG. 20A, the display 610A displays a message A1 prompting the user to input the serial number and manufacturer name, an input field A2 for the serial number, and an input field A3 for the manufacturer name. The user of the external device 600 inputs the serial number of the liquid ejection head 110a into the input field A2, for example, by using a soft keyboard. Then, the user of the external device 600 switches the input target input field to the input field A3 by using the selection button 620A or touching the input field A3. Next, the user of the external device 600 inputs the manufacturer name of the liquid ejection device 100 into the input field A3, for example, by using a soft keyboard. Finally, the user of the external device 600 completes the input by pressing the enter button 620B. Through these procedures, the information input into the input field A2 is acquired by the acquisition unit 651 as first information D1. Moreover, the information entered in the input field A3 is acquired by the acquisition unit 651 as second information D2.

[0230] FIG. 20B illustrates an example of a display screen displayed by the manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100 to notify the user of the external device 600 that the liquid ejection head 110a used to manufacture the liquid ejection device 100 is not a genuine product. As shown in FIG. 20B, the display 610A displays a message A4 conveying the notification, a soft button A5 for instructing the user to ignore the message A4, and a soft button A6 for displaying details of the message A4. When the user of the external device 600 presses the soft button A5, the message A4, the soft button A5, and the soft button A6 disappear from the display 610A. Alternatively, a signal indicating that the soft button A5 has been pressed may be transmitted from the external device 600 to the first processing device 200C, and the function execution unit 255 of the first processing device 200C may perform processing to disable some or all of the functions of the liquid ejection device 100. When the user of the external device 600 presses the soft button A6, a display screen such as that illustrated in FIG. 20C (described later) is displayed.

[0231] 20C is an example of a display screen that notifies the user of the external device 600 to inquire with the manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100. As shown in Fig. 20C, the display 610A displays a message A7 that clearly indicates the manufacturer name of the genuine liquid ejection head 110a that should be attached to the liquid ejection device 100, and the manufacturer name of the liquid ejection head 110a that is currently attached to the liquid ejection device 100. The display 610A also displays a message A8 that prompts the user to inquire with the manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100.

[0232] 20A to 20C are examples of display screens displayed on the display 610A, and the display screens are not limited to these. For example, the display 610A may display a message urging the user of the liquid ejection device 100 to use the genuine liquid ejection head 110a.

[0233] 4-4. Liquid Discharge System Processing FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the processing of the liquid ejection system 10C according to the fourth embodiment.

[0234] In step S401, the processing circuit 250C of the first processing device 200C functions as the acquiring unit 251 to acquire the first information D1.

[0235] In step S402, the processing circuit 250C of the first processing device 200C functions as the acquiring unit 251 to acquire the second information D2.

[0236] In step S403, the processing circuit 250C of the first processing device 200C functions as a transmitter 252B to transmit the first information D1 and the second information D2 to the external device 600. Thereafter, the processing circuit 250C of the first processing device 200C ends all processing. Furthermore, the processing circuit 650 of the external device 600 functions as an acquirer 651 to acquire the first information D1 and the second information D2.

[0237] In step S404, the processing circuit 650 of the external device 600 functions as a transmitting unit 652 to transmit the first information D1 and the second information D2 to the server 300. The processing circuit 350 of the server 300 functions as a receiving unit 351 to receive the first information D1 and the second information D2.

[0238] In step S405, the processing circuit 350 of the server 300 functions as the determination unit 352 to determine whether the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is stored in the server 300 in advance.

[0239] In step S406, the processing circuit 350 of the server 300 functions as the determination unit 352 to generate third information D3 as the determination result.

[0240] In step S407, the processing circuit 350 of the server 300 functions as the transmitting unit 353 to transmit the third information D3 to the external device 600. Thereafter, the processing circuit 350 of the server 300 ends all processing. Furthermore, the processing circuit 650 of the external device 600 functions as the receiving unit 653 to receive the third information D3.

[0241] If the third information D3 indicates true, i.e., if the answer is YES in step S408, the processing circuit 650 of the external device 600 ends all processing. If the third information D3 indicates false, i.e., if the answer is NO in step S408, the processing circuit 650 of the external device 600 executes the processing of step S409.

[0242] In step S409, the processing circuit 650 of the external device 600 functions as the notification unit 654, and outputs a first notification related to the liquid ejection device 100 to the outside of the external device 600 based on the third information D3. Thereafter, the processing circuit 650 of the external device 600 ends all processing.

[0243] 4-5. Effects of the liquid ejection system The liquid ejection system 10C according to this embodiment includes an external device 600. The external device 600 has a connection unit 631 that can be connected to the server 300 via a network. In the external device 600, a transmission unit 652 causes the connection unit 631 to transmit first information D1 and second information D2 to the server 300. A reception unit 653 causes the connection unit 631 to receive third information D3 from the server 300.

[0244] Because the liquid ejection system 10C has this configuration, the first information D1 and the second information D2 can be transmitted directly from the external device 600 to the server 300. In addition, the external device 600 can receive the third information D3 directly from the server 300.

[0245] Furthermore, in the liquid ejection system 10C, short-range wireless communication is possible between the first processing device 200C and the external device 600. The external device 600 has an acquisition unit 651 that acquires the first information D1 via short-range wireless communication.

[0246] The liquid ejection system 10C has this configuration, so that the external device 600 can acquire the first information D1 from the first processing device 200C by short-range wireless communication.

[0247] 5. Fifth embodiment The fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described below. In the following exemplary embodiments, elements whose actions or functions are similar to those of the first, third, and fourth embodiments will be designated by the same reference numerals as those used in the descriptions of the first, third, and fourth embodiments, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted where appropriate.

[0248] 5-1. Overview of the liquid ejection system Fig. 22 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a liquid ejection system 10D according to the fifth embodiment. In the example shown in Fig. 22, the liquid ejection system 10D includes first processing devices 200B_1 to 200B_3, liquid ejection devices 100B_1 to 100B_3, external devices 600A_1 to 600A_3, and a server 300. Note that, hereinafter, the liquid ejection devices 100B_1 to 100B_3 will be collectively referred to as "liquid ejection device 100B." Similarly, the external devices 600A_1 to 600A_3 will be collectively referred to as "external device 600A."

[0249] The first processing devices 200B_1 to 200B_3, the liquid ejection devices 100B_1 to 100B_3, and the external devices 600A_1 to 600A_3 correspond one to one to one. Note that, although three first processing devices 200B_1 to 200B_3, three liquid ejection devices 100B_1 to 100B_3, and three external devices 600A_1 to 600A_3 are shown in Fig. 22, this is just an example, and the liquid ejection system 10D has any number of pairs of first processing devices 200B, liquid ejection devices 100B, first processing devices 200C, and external devices 600A.

[0250] In the liquid ejection system 10D, the liquid ejection device 100B is connected to the first processing device 200B and the external device 600A wirelessly or via a wire so that they can communicate with each other. The external device 600A is connected to the liquid ejection device 100B and the server 300 wirelessly or via a wire so that they can communicate with each other. This connection may involve a communication network NW, including the Internet.

[0251] 22, the first information D1 and the second information D2 are transmitted from the liquid ejection device 100B to the external device 600A. The first information D1 and the second information D2 are transmitted from the external device 600A to the server 300. Meanwhile, the server 300 transmits the third information D3 to the external device 600A.

[0252] 5-2. Configuration of the liquid ejection device 23 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a liquid ejection device 100B used in a liquid ejection system 10D according to the fifth embodiment. The liquid ejection device 100B differs from the liquid ejection device 100A according to the third embodiment in that it has a communication device 117A instead of the communication device 117, and a processing circuit 119A instead of the processing circuit 119.

[0253] The communication device 117A is a circuit communicatively connected to the external device 600A. For example, the communication device 117A is an interface such as a wireless or wired LAN or USB. The communication device 117A transmits the first information D1 and the second information D2 through short-range communication with the external device 600A. That is, the communication device 117A functions as a short-range connection unit 172 communicatively connected to the external device 600A.

[0254] The processing circuit 119A differs from the processing circuit 119 according to the third embodiment in that the transmission unit 252 transmits the acquired first information D1 and second information D2 to the external device 600A via the short-distance connection unit 172. The transmission unit 252 is an example of a first transmission unit.

[0255] 5-3. External device configuration 24 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an external device 600A used in a liquid ejection system 10D according to the fifth embodiment. The external device 600A differs from the external device 600 according to the fourth embodiment in that it has a processing circuit 650A instead of the processing circuit 650, and a communication device 630A instead of the communication device 630.

[0256] The communication device 630A differs from the communication device 630 in that it has a short-distance connection unit 632A instead of the short-distance connection unit 632. The communication device 630A receives the first information D1 and the second information D2 through short-distance communication with the liquid ejection device 100B. In other words, the communication device 630A functions as the short-distance connection unit 632A that is communicatively connected to the liquid ejection device 100B. The communication device 630A may be integrated with the processing circuit 650A.

[0257] Processing circuit 650A differs from processing circuit 650 in that it has an acquisition unit 651A instead of acquisition unit 651.

[0258] The acquisition unit 651A acquires the first information D1 and the second information D2 by communicating with the liquid ejection device 100B using the short-distance connector 632A. The acquisition unit 651A stores the acquired first information D1 and second information D2 in the memory circuitry 640. The acquisition unit 651A is an example of a second acquisition unit. The acquisition unit 651A may acquire the first information D1 and the second information D2 input from the input device 220.

[0259] 5-4. Liquid Discharge System Processing FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the processing of the liquid ejection system 10D according to the fifth embodiment.

[0260] In step S501, the processing circuitry 119A of the liquid ejection device 100B functions as the acquisition section 251 to acquire the first information D1.

[0261] In step S502, the processing circuitry 119A of the liquid ejection device 100B functions as the acquisition section 251 to acquire the second information D2.

[0262] In step S503, the processing circuit 119A of the liquid ejection device 100B functions as the sending unit 252 to send the first information D1 and the second information D2 to the external device 600A. Thereafter, the processing circuit 119A of the liquid ejection device 100B ends all processing. Furthermore, the processing circuit 650A of the external device 600A functions as the acquiring unit 651A to acquire the first information D1 and the second information D2.

[0263] In step S504, processing circuit 650A of external device 600A functions as transmitting unit 652 to transmit first information D1 and second information D2 to server 300. Processing circuit 350 of server 300 functions as receiving unit 351 to receive first information D1 and second information D2.

[0264] In step S505, the processing circuit 350 of the server 300 functions as the determination unit 352 to determine whether the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 is stored in the server 300 in advance.

[0265] In step S506, the processing circuit 350 of the server 300 functions as the determination unit 352 to generate third information D3 as the determination result.

[0266] In step S507, the processing circuit 350 of the server 300 functions as the transmitting unit 353 to transmit the third information D3 to the external device 600A. Thereafter, the processing circuit 350 of the server 300 ends all processing. Also, the processing circuit 650A of the external device 600A functions as the receiving unit 653 to receive the third information D3.

[0267] If the third information D3 indicates true, i.e., if the answer is YES in step S508, the processing circuit 650A of the external device 600A ends all processing. If the third information D3 indicates false, i.e., if the answer is NO in step S508, the processing circuit 650A of the external device 600A executes the processing of step S509.

[0268] In step S509, the processing circuit 650A of the external device 600A functions as the notification unit 654 to output a first notification related to the liquid ejection device 100 to the outside of the external device 600A based on the third information D3. Thereafter, the processing circuit 650A of the external device 600A ends all processing.

[0269] 5-5. Effects of the liquid ejection system The liquid ejection system 10D according to this embodiment includes an external device 600A. The external device 600A has a connection unit 631 that can be connected to the server 300 via a network. In the external device 600A, a transmission unit 652 causes the connection unit 631 to transmit first information D1 and second information D2 to the server 300. A reception unit 653 causes the connection unit 631 to receive third information D3 from the server 300.

[0270] Because the liquid ejection system 10D has this configuration, the first information D1 and the second information D2 can be transmitted directly from the external device 600A to the server 300. In addition, the external device 600A can receive the third information D3 directly from the server 300.

[0271] Furthermore, in the liquid ejection system 10D, the liquid ejection device 100B and the external device 600A are capable of short-range wireless communication. The external device 600A has an acquisition unit 651A that acquires the first information D1 via short-range wireless communication.

[0272] The liquid ejection system 10D has this configuration, so that the external device 600A can acquire the first information D1 from the liquid ejection device 100B by short-range wireless communication.

[0273] 5. Variations While the liquid ejection system of the present invention has been described above based on the illustrated embodiments, the present invention is not limited to these. Furthermore, the configuration of each part of the present invention can be replaced with any configuration that exhibits the same function as the above-described embodiments, and any configuration can also be added.

[0274] 5-1. Variation 1 In the liquid ejection system 10A according to the second embodiment, the second processing device 400 outputs a second notification related to the liquid ejection device 100 based on the fifth information D5. For example, the second processing device 400 outputs a second notification indicating that the liquid ejection head 110a used to manufacture the liquid ejection device 100 is not a genuine product. However, the notification output by the second processing device 400 is not limited to the second notification.

[0275] 26 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a second processing device 400A provided in a liquid ejection system according to this modification in place of the second processing device 400 according to the second embodiment. The second processing device 400A differs from the second processing device 400 according to the second embodiment in that the memory circuitry 440 further stores third information D3, and in that the processing circuitry 450 is replaced by a processing circuitry 450A.

[0276] The processing circuit 450A differs from the processing circuit 450 according to the first embodiment in that it has a receiving unit 451A instead of the receiving unit 451 and a notifying unit 452A instead of the notifying unit 452.

[0277] Similar to the receiving unit 451, the receiving unit 451A receives the fifth information D5 by communicating with the server 300A using the connection unit 431. The receiving unit 451A stores the received fifth information D5 in the memory circuit 440. Furthermore, the receiving unit 451A receives the third information D3 by communicating with the server 300A using the connection unit 431.

[0278] Similar to the notification unit 452, the notification unit 452A outputs a second notification related to the liquid ejection device 100 to the outside of the second processing device 400 based on the fifth information D5. Furthermore, the notification unit 452 outputs a notification related to the liquid ejection device 100 to the outside of the second processing device 400A based on the third information D3. This notification may be, for example, a notification to the manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100 to remind them to use a genuine liquid ejection head 110a. Alternatively, this notification may be, for example, a notification to prompt the manufacturer of the liquid ejection device 100 to check the liquid ejection head 110a used during manufacture. Furthermore, for example, the notification unit 254 uses a display control unit (not shown) to display the notification on the display device 410. The notification unit 452A is an example of a first notification unit. The above notification is also an example of a first notification.

[0279] By providing the second processing device 400A with this configuration, the third information D3 can be received by the second processing device 400A. Furthermore, if the manufacturer of the printer serving as the liquid ejection device 100 has the second processing device 400A, the manufacturer can be reminded to use the head as a genuine liquid ejection head 110a, or be prompted to check the liquid ejection head 110a used during manufacture.

[0280] 5-2. Variation 2 In the liquid ejection system 10 according to the first embodiment, it is assumed that the liquid ejection device 100 and the first processing device 200 are separate entities and are connected to each other wirelessly or via a wire so that they can communicate with each other. However, the liquid ejection device 100 and the first processing device 200 may be configured such that one is incorporated into the other within a single housing. The same is true for the liquid ejection systems 10A according to the second embodiment to 10D according to the fifth embodiment.

[0281] 5-3. Variation 3 In the liquid ejection system 10 according to the first embodiment, the acquisition unit 251 of the first processing device 200 acquires the first information D1 and the second information D2 from the liquid ejection device 100, but the method of acquiring the first information D1 and the second information D2 is not limited to this. For example, the acquisition unit 251 may acquire at least one of the first information D1 and the second information D2 based on input from the input device 220 by the user of the liquid ejection device 100. The same applies to the liquid ejection systems 10A according to the second embodiment to 10D according to the fifth embodiment.

[0282] 5-4. Variation 4 In the liquid ejection system 10C according to the fourth embodiment, the external device 600 acquires the first information D1 and the second information D2 from the first processing device 200C via near-field wireless communication. Alternatively, the external device 600 acquires the first information D1 and the second information D2 through input by the user of the external device 600 using the display device 610 and the input device 620. However, the method by which the external device 600 acquires the first information D1 and the second information D2 is not limited to this. For example, the external device 600 may acquire the first information D1 and the second information D2 by reading a QR code attached to the housing of the liquid ejection device 100B and the liquid ejection head 110a or a QR code displayed on the display device 210 of the first processing device 200B using an imaging device (not shown) included in the external device 600. This is also true for the liquid ejection system 10D according to the fifth embodiment. Note that QR code is a registered trademark.

[0283] 5-5. Variation 5 In the liquid ejection system 10 according to the first embodiment, when a user of the liquid ejection device 100 inputs a transmission instruction via the input device 220, the transmission unit 252 of the first processing device 200 immediately transmits the first information D1 and the second information D2 to the server 300 via the connection unit 231. However, the method of transmitting the first information D1 and the second information D2 is not limited to this. For example, when a transmission instruction is input via the input device 220, the liquid ejection device 100 transmits the account information of the user of the liquid ejection device 100 and a password used for user authentication to the server 300 via the first processing device 200. Once the server 300 authenticates the user using the account information and password, the server 300 transmits a signal to the liquid ejection device 100 via the first processing device 200 to permit transmission of the first information D1 and the second information D2. Thereafter, the liquid ejection device 100 transmits the first information D1 and the second information D2 to the server 300, triggered by receiving the signal. The first information D1 and the second information D2 may be transmitted in this manner.

[0284] 5-6. Variation 6 In the liquid ejection system 10 according to the first embodiment, the notification unit 254 of the first processing device 200 issues a first notification. In the first embodiment, as shown in the 11th row of the table in FIG. 5, if a true determination result is obtained multiple times, the notification unit 254 issues a first notification indicating that the third information D3 is "NG." However, the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to the aspect in which the notification unit 254 issues a first notification. For example, if a true determination result is obtained multiple times, the notification unit 254 may issue a third notification that is different from the first notification. The third notification may indicate the same content as the first notification indicating that the third information D3 is "NG." Alternatively, the third notification may indicate content that is different from the first notification.

[0285] As an example, the third information D3 may be information indicating only whether the correspondence between the first information D1 and the second information D2 matches the correspondence between the serial number of the genuine liquid ejection head 110a and the code indicating the manufacturer name of the liquid ejection device 100. In addition, the third notification may indicate that although the third information D3 itself is true, an event in which the third information D3 becomes true has occurred multiple times, and therefore the determination result by the determination unit 352 is "NG".

[0286] By having this configuration, the liquid ejection system 10 can cause the notification unit 254 to issue a third notification when a set of first information D1 and second information D2 identical to that of the first printer is input to the determination unit 352 of the server 300 for a second printer that is manufactured by the same manufacturer as a first printer that has an authentic head installed and that has an unauthorized head installed.

[0287] 5-7. Variation 7 In the liquid ejection system 10C according to the fourth embodiment, the external device 600 outputs the first notification based on the third information D3, but the entity that outputs the first notification is not limited to the external device 600. For example, the first processing device 200C may obtain the third information D3 from the external device 600 and issue the first notification based on the third information D3. The same applies to the liquid ejection system 10D according to the fifth embodiment.

[0288] 5-8. Variation 8 In the liquid ejection system 10D according to the fifth embodiment, the external device 600A acquires the first information D1 and the second information D2 by short-range wireless communication with the communication device 130B included in the liquid ejection device 100B, but the communication method between the external device 600A and the liquid ejection device 100B is not limited to this. For example, the head unit 110 included in the liquid ejection device 100B may be equipped with a communication device capable of short-range wireless communication that is independent of the communication device 130B, thereby allowing the external device 600A to acquire the first information D1 stored in the memory circuit 113. [Explanation of symbols]

[0289] 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D...Liquid ejection system, 100, 100A, 100B...Liquid ejection device, 110...Head unit, 110a...Liquid ejection head, 110b...Control module, 111...Head chip, 111f...Driving element, 112...Driving circuit, 113...Memory circuit, 114...Power supply circuit, 115...Driving signal generation circuit, 117, 117A...Communication device, 118...Memory circuit, 119, 119A...Processing circuit, 120...Moving mechanism, 130...Communication device, 131...Connection unit, 132...Short-range connection unit, 140...Memory circuit, 150, 150A, 150B...Processing circuit , 171...connection unit, 172...short-distance connection unit, 200, 200A, 200B, 200C...first processing device, 210...display device, 220...input device, 230, 230A...communication device, 231...connection unit, 232...short-distance connection unit, 240...memory circuit, 250, 250A, 250B, 250C...processing circuit, 251...acquisition unit, 252, 252A, 252B...transmission unit, 253, 253A...reception unit, 254, 254A...notification unit, 255...function execution unit, 256...display control unit, 257...determination unit, 300, 300A...server, 310...display device, 320...input device, 330...communication device , 331...connection unit, 340...storage circuit, 350, 350A...processing circuit, 351...receiving unit, 352, 352A...determination unit, 353, 353A...transmitting unit, 354...key information generating unit, 355...receiving unit, 356...collating unit, 400, 400A...second processing device, 410...display device, 420...input device, 430...communication device, 431...connection unit, 440...storage circuit, 450, 450A...processing circuit, 451, 451A...receiving unit, 452, 452A...notification unit, 500...third processing device, 510...display device, 520...input device, 530...communication device, 531...connection unit, 540...storage circuit, 5 50...processing circuit, 551...receiving unit, 552...updating unit, 600, 600A...external device, 601...sound generating unit, 605...sound receiving unit, 610...display device, 610A...display, 620...input device, 620A...selection button, 620B...decision button, 630, 630A...communication device, 631...connecting unit, 632, 632A...short-range connecting unit, 640...memory circuit, 650, 650A...processing circuit, 651, 651A...acquiring unit, 651A...acquiring unit for acquiring, 652...transmitting unit, 653...receiving unit, 654...notifying unit, 655...display control unit, CD1, CD2...corresponding information, D1...first information,D2...second information, D3...third information, D4...fourth information, D5...fifth information, KD1...key information, KD2...key information, PG1, PG2, PG3, PG4, PG5...program,

Claims

1. a liquid ejection device equipped with a liquid ejection head that ejects liquid; a first processing device connected to the liquid ejection device and configured to generate recording data used to cause the liquid ejection head of the liquid ejection device to perform an ejection operation; A liquid ejection system comprising: a network-connectable server; a first acquisition unit that acquires first information specific to the liquid ejection head and second information related to the liquid ejection device; a first transmission unit that transmits the first information and the second information acquired by the first acquisition unit to the server via a network connection; a first receiving unit in the server that receives the first information and the second information via a network connection; a determination unit in the server that determines whether a correspondence relationship between the first information and the second information is stored in advance in the server; a second transmission unit that transmits third information related to the determination result of the determination unit from the server via a network connection; a second receiving unit for receiving the third information via a network connection; a first notification unit that issues a first notification to an external device based on the third information received by the second receiving unit, the liquid ejection device has a first connection unit that can be connected to the server through a network; the first transmission unit causes the first connection unit to transmit the first information and the second information to the server; The second receiving unit causes the first connecting unit to receive the third information from the server. A liquid ejection system comprising:

2. a liquid ejection device equipped with a liquid ejection head that ejects liquid; a first processing device connected to the liquid ejection device and configured to generate recording data used to cause the liquid ejection head of the liquid ejection device to perform an ejection operation; A liquid ejection system comprising: a network-connectable server; a first acquisition unit that acquires first information specific to the liquid ejection head and second information related to the liquid ejection device; a first transmission unit that transmits the first information and the second information acquired by the first acquisition unit to the server via a network connection; a first receiving unit in the server that receives the first information and the second information via a network connection; a determination unit in the server that determines whether a correspondence relationship between the first information and the second information is stored in advance in the server; a second transmission unit that transmits third information related to the determination result of the determination unit from the server via a network connection; a second receiving unit for receiving the third information via a network connection; a first notification unit that issues a first notification to an external device based on the third information received by the second receiving unit, a function execution unit that causes the liquid ejection device to perform a predetermined function based on fourth information, the second transmission unit transmits the fourth information from the server via a network connection; the second receiving unit receives the fourth information from the server via a network connection. A liquid ejection system comprising:

3. a liquid ejection device equipped with a liquid ejection head that ejects liquid; a first processing device connected to the liquid ejection device and configured to generate recording data used to cause the liquid ejection head of the liquid ejection device to perform an ejection operation; A liquid ejection system comprising: a network-connectable server; a first acquisition unit that acquires first information specific to the liquid ejection head and second information related to the liquid ejection device; a first transmission unit that transmits the first information and the second information acquired by the first acquisition unit to the server via a network connection; a first receiving unit in the server that receives the first information and the second information via a network connection; a determination unit in the server that determines whether a correspondence relationship between the first information and the second information is stored in advance in the server; a second transmission unit that transmits third information related to the determination result of the determination unit from the server via a network connection; a second receiving unit for receiving the third information via a network connection; a first notification unit that issues a first notification to an external device based on the third information received by the second receiving unit, a third transmitting unit configured to transmit fifth information via a network connection to the liquid ejection head, the liquid ejection device, and a second processing device different from the first processing device, when the determining unit determines that the correspondence between the first information and the second information is not stored in advance in the server; A liquid ejection system comprising:

4. a liquid ejection device equipped with a liquid ejection head that ejects liquid; a first processing device connected to the liquid ejection device and configured to generate recording data used to cause the liquid ejection head of the liquid ejection device to perform an ejection operation; a networkable server; a third processing device connected to the server through a network, a first acquisition unit that acquires first information specific to the liquid ejection head and second information related to the liquid ejection device; a first transmission unit that transmits the first information and the second information acquired by the first acquisition unit to the server via a network connection; a first receiving unit in the server that receives the first information and the second information via a network connection; a determination unit in the server that determines whether a correspondence relationship between the first information and the second information is stored in advance in the server; a second transmission unit that transmits third information related to the determination result of the determination unit from the server via a network connection; a second receiving unit for receiving the third information via a network connection; a first notification unit that issues a first notification to an external device based on the third information received by the second receiving unit, the third processing device has an update unit that updates the correspondence between the first information and the second information stored in the server. A liquid ejection system comprising:

5. a liquid ejection device equipped with a liquid ejection head that ejects liquid; a first processing device connected to the liquid ejection device and configured to generate recording data used to cause the liquid ejection head of the liquid ejection device to perform an ejection operation; a networkable server; a third processing device connected to the server through a network, a first acquisition unit that acquires first information specific to the liquid ejection head and second information related to the liquid ejection device; a first transmission unit that transmits the first information and the second information acquired by the first acquisition unit to the server via a network connection; a first receiving unit in the server that receives the first information and the second information via a network connection; a determination unit in the server that determines whether a correspondence relationship between the first information and the second information is stored in advance in the server; a second transmission unit that transmits third information related to the determination result of the determination unit from the server via a network connection; a second receiving unit for receiving the third information via a network connection; a first notification unit that issues a first notification to an external device based on the third information received by the second receiving unit, the third processing device has an external storage unit, when the determination unit determines that the correspondence between the first information and the second information is not stored in advance in the server, the external storage unit stores the second information; When the determination unit determines that the correspondence between the first information and the second information is stored in advance in the server, the external storage unit does not store the second information. A liquid ejection system comprising:

6. a liquid ejection device equipped with a liquid ejection head that ejects liquid; a first processing device connected to the liquid ejection device and configured to generate recording data used to cause the liquid ejection head of the liquid ejection device to perform an ejection operation; A liquid ejection system comprising: a network-connectable server; a first acquisition unit that acquires first information specific to the liquid ejection head and second information related to the liquid ejection device; a first transmission unit that transmits the first information and the second information acquired by the first acquisition unit to the server via a network connection; a first receiving unit in the server that receives the first information and the second information via a network connection; a determination unit in the server that determines whether a correspondence relationship between the first information and the second information is stored in advance in the server; a second transmission unit that transmits third information related to the determination result of the determination unit from the server via a network connection; a second receiving unit for receiving the third information via a network connection; a first notification unit that issues a first notification to an external device based on the third information received by the second receiving unit, When the determination unit determines that the correspondence between the first information and the second information is stored in advance in the server, and when the determination unit determines multiple times that the same correspondence is stored in advance in the server, the first notification unit issues a third notification. A liquid ejection system comprising:

7. a liquid ejection device equipped with a liquid ejection head that ejects liquid; a first processing device connected to the liquid ejection device and configured to generate recording data used to cause the liquid ejection head of the liquid ejection device to perform an ejection operation; A liquid ejection system comprising: a network-connectable server; a first acquisition unit that acquires first information specific to the liquid ejection head and second information related to the liquid ejection device; a first transmission unit that transmits the first information and the second information acquired by the first acquisition unit to the server via a network connection; a first receiving unit in the server that receives the first information and the second information via a network connection; a determination unit in the server that determines whether a correspondence relationship between the first information and the second information is stored in advance in the server; a second transmission unit that transmits third information related to the determination result of the determination unit from the server via a network connection; a second receiving unit for receiving the third information via a network connection; a first notification unit that issues a first notification to an external device based on the third information received by the second receiving unit; a display control unit that causes a display device to display a display for prompting a user of the liquid ejection device to input the first information and the second information, the first acquisition unit acquires the first information and the second information based on the input. A liquid ejection system comprising:

8. a liquid ejection device equipped with a liquid ejection head that ejects liquid; a first processing device connected to the liquid ejection device and configured to generate recording data used to cause the liquid ejection head of the liquid ejection device to perform an ejection operation; A liquid ejection system comprising: a network-connectable server; a first acquisition unit that acquires first information specific to the liquid ejection head and second information related to the liquid ejection device; a first transmission unit that transmits the first information and the second information acquired by the first acquisition unit to the server via a network connection; a first receiving unit in the server that receives the first information and the second information via a network connection; a determination unit in the server that determines whether a correspondence relationship between the first information and the second information is stored in advance in the server; a second transmission unit that transmits third information related to the determination result of the determination unit from the server via a network connection; a second receiving unit for receiving the third information via a network connection; a first notification unit that issues a first notification to an external device based on the third information received by the second receiving unit, the liquid ejection head has a first storage unit that stores the first information; the liquid ejection device has a second storage unit that stores the second information; the first acquisition unit acquires the first information by reading out the first information stored in the first storage unit, and acquires the second information by reading out the second information stored in the second storage unit; A liquid ejection system comprising:

9. the first processing device has a first connection unit that can be connected to the server through a network; the first transmission unit causes the first connection unit to transmit the first information and the second information to the server; 9. The liquid ejection system according to claim 2, wherein the second receiving unit causes the first connecting unit to receive the third information from the server.

10. further comprising an external device different from the liquid ejection device and the first processing device; the external device has a first connection unit that can be connected to the server through a network; the first transmission unit causes the first connection unit to transmit the first information and the second information to the server; 9. The liquid ejection system according to claim 2, wherein the second receiving unit causes the first connecting unit to receive the third information from the server.

11. a code corresponding to the first information is displayed on the liquid ejection device, the first processing device, or the liquid ejection head; The external device further includes a second acquisition unit that acquires the first information by reading the code. The liquid ejection system according to claim 10 .

12. the liquid ejection device, the first processing device, or the liquid ejection head is capable of short-distance wireless communication with the external device; the external device further includes a second acquisition unit that acquires the first information via short-range wireless communication. The liquid ejection system according to claim 10 .

13. the first notification includes a notification to a user of the liquid ejection device to use the genuine liquid ejection head; The liquid ejection system according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. the first notification includes a notification urging the user of the liquid ejection device to inquire with a manufacturer of the liquid ejection device; The liquid ejection system according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

15. when the determination unit determines that the correspondence between the first information and the second information is not stored in advance in the server, the function execution unit does not permit the liquid ejection device to perform the predetermined function. The liquid ejection system according to claim 2 .

16. a key information generating unit that generates key information related to a first activation key when the determining unit determines that the correspondence between the first information and the second information is stored in advance in the server; a reception unit that receives an input of a second activation key, When the first activation key indicated by the key information matches the second activation key accepted by the accepting unit, the second transmitting unit transmits the fourth information from the server via a network connection.

16. The liquid ejection system according to claim 15.

17. the key information generating unit generates the key information such that the first activation key is different depending on the first information received by the first receiving unit; 17. The liquid ejection system of claim 16.

18. the second notification includes a notification from a manufacturer of the liquid ejection device indicating that the liquid ejection head used to manufacture the liquid ejection device is not a genuine product; The liquid ejection system according to claim 3 .

19. The server is a cloud server.

19. A liquid ejection system according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

20. a liquid ejection device equipped with a liquid ejection head that ejects liquid; a first processing device connected to the liquid ejection device and configured to generate recording data used to cause the liquid ejection head of the liquid ejection device to perform an ejection operation; a networkable server; A liquid ejection system including a second processing device connected to the server through a network, a first acquisition unit that acquires first information specific to the liquid ejection head and second information related to the liquid ejection device; a first transmission unit that transmits the first information and the second information acquired by the first acquisition unit to the server via a network connection; a first receiving unit in the server that receives the first information and the second information via a network connection; a determination unit in the server that determines whether a correspondence relationship between the first information and the second information is stored in advance in the server; a second transmission unit that transmits third information related to the determination result of the determination unit from the server via a network connection; a second receiving unit in the second processing device that receives the third information via a network connection; a first notification unit configured to issue a first notification to an outside of the second processing device based on the third information received by the second receiving unit, the liquid ejection device has a first connection unit that can be connected to the server through a network; the first transmission unit causes the first connection unit to transmit the first information and the second information to the server; The second receiving unit causes the first connecting unit to receive the third information from the server. A liquid ejection system comprising:

21. the first information is a serial number of the liquid ejection head; 21. The liquid ejection system according to claim 1.

22. the second information is at least one of a manufacturer name and a product number of the liquid ejection device; 22. The liquid ejection system according to claim 1.

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